WE’RE HIRING | Director of Programs & Partnerships
- Athena Staff
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
Now is the time to rise.
As the world navigates rapid change and growing polarization, the values of inclusion and community are being tested in profound ways. Now more than ever, we need courageous leaders who believe in lifting others, building resilient communities, and advancing opportunities for all.
If you're passionate about creating impact, supporting women in STEM, and building programs that empower the next generation of changemakers—this is your moment.
ABOUT ATHENA
Athena is not just an organization. It's a movement.
With a mission to fast-track women leaders in STEM and a bold goal to advance ONE MILLION WOMEN LEADING BY 2030, Athena is the force behind the next generation of corporate, academic, and entrepreneurial leaders.
Spanning 100,000+ members across 170+ countries, Athena unites a global network of changemakers through leadership development, mentoring, and advocacy. We serve aspiring and executive leaders, male allies, university students, and the companies that champion inclusion.
For 25+ years, we’ve stood on the frontlines of women’s advancement in one of the world's most innovative STEM regions. Now, we’re expanding globally—and we want you on Team Athena.
ABOUT THE ROLE | Director of Programs & Partnerships
As Athena’s Director of Programs & Partnerships, you won’t just plan programs. You will power a movement.
We’re seeking a passionate and experienced changemaker (3–5 years of program management + event planning) who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-first culture. You’ll report directly to the CEO and collaborate with our Board of Directors (spanning 20 top science and tech companies) and a lean but powerhouse team.
This role is for the doers, the detail lovers, the impact chasers—and the ones who believe in doing well by doing good.
YOUR IMPACT
Lead and manage 40+ annual leadership events and programs that inspire, educate, and mobilize.
Serve as a trusted steward of Athena’s program strategy, corporate partnerships, and member experience.
Drive results with budget management, event sponsor fulfillment, and ROI reporting.
Build and maintain relationships with 50 corporate partners, 6 program committees, and 10,000+ members.
Be a brand ambassador and connector across the Athena community and broader ecosystem.
Support the CEO and help steer key organizational priorities with insight, grit, and integrity.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
Own P&L oversight for all events, ensuring seamless execution and sponsor satisfaction
Collaborate with 6 program committees; lead content planning and strategy
Produce, promote, and execute a high-impact annual calendar of 40+ events
Champion program KPIs and communicate impact through analytics and reporting
Partner with Digital Comms to align event marketing with broader mission goals
Source venues, negotiate contracts, and lead event logistics
Represent Athena with professionalism, passion, and purpose
Support CEO and provide back-up office support when needed
Mentor interns and volunteers who are future torchbearers of the mission
WHAT YOU BRING
A bachelor’s degree and 3–5 years of leadership-level program/event experience
Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
High proficiency with Zoom and virtual event platforms
Strong project management chops and organizational excellence
A proven ability to drive results and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment
Experience with CRM platforms, video editing, and website CMS is a plus
Unshakable belief in gender equity, inclusion, and social impact
Ability to manage on-site 3 events a month and travel as needed
THE PERKS
Salary: $75K–$85K + commission
Location: Remote from San Diego (work-from-home + in-person events)
Benefits: Health insurance + 401K + flexible work conditions
Take part of a high-performing, heart-led team driven by excellence and equity
Do work that matters—and helps redefine the future of STEM, business, and leadership
Join Athena. Be the reason someone else rises.
Comments