VP of Programs

THE POSITION

The VP of Programs is a critical leadership role at Fast Forward, responsible for the vision, strategy, and operational excellence  of all programs that support and accelerate tech nonprofits. This role leads the design, implementation, and scaling of innovative programs that provide tech nonprofits with the resources, knowledge, and networks they need to scale their impact. This is a hands-on leadership role for a systems-oriented builder who thrives in ambiguity, can prioritize ruthlessly, and excels at translating strategy into execution. 

The VP of Programs reports directly to the President and collaborates closely with other members of the Executive Team, Partnerships, Marketing & Communications, and external partners and alumni.

This position is based in San Francisco, CA; it is a full-time, in-office role (no remote work).

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Strategy & Development:

• Own and evolve Fast Forward’s multi-year programs strategy, aligned with organizational goals and the evolving needs of tech nonprofits.
• Oversee the design, delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement of Fast Forward’s full programs portfolio.
• Make strategic decisions about where to invest, pilot, scale, or sunset programs based on impact, capacity, and organizational priorities.
• Identify and assess the evolving needs of tech nonprofits and design programs that address those needs effectively, both for the Fast Forward portfolio and broader tech nonprofit sector.
• Continuously adapt programs in response to changes in technology, AI, policy, and fundraising landscapes.
• Partner with internal teams to ensure programs are fundable, measureable, and operationally sustainable.

Organizational Strategy:

• Serve as a core member of Fast Forward’s executive leadership team, contributing to organizational strategy, planning, and decision-making.
• Collaborate closely with Partnerships, MarComms, and Operations to ensure programs are fundable, measurable, and scalable.
• Represent Fast Forward publicly at events, conferences, and with funders and ecosystem partners.
• Help shape Fast Forward’s role as a leader in the AI for Humanity and tech nonprofit ecosystem

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing Programs team (4+ staff), including program directors, managers, and coordinators.
• Build clear ownership, processes, and operating rhythms across our programs.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, learning, accountability, and excellence.
• Support professional growth and development for team members as the organization and programs evolve.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• 10+ years of experience in program leadership, operations, or general management in high-growth, mission-driven organizations.
• Experience operating in startup environments, including serving in a leadership role at an early-stage or scaling organization and/or supporting portfolio companies through a venture capital or accelerator model. 
• Experience building, scaling, and operating complex programs or portfolios with limited resources.
• Proven track record of developing and scaling successful programs with measurable impact.
• Experience planning and managing large-scale in-person and virtual events or programs.
• Deep curiosity about the challenges and opportunities facing tech nonprofits.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional work and influence without direct authority.
• Strong people manager with experience hiring, developing, and supporting high-performing teams; able to provide clear direction, feedback, and growth opportunities
• Proven comfort working in a fast-paced startup work environment; must be flexible, adaptable, organized, and excel in working cross-functionally.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and execution-focused

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• Unlimited paid time off (PTO)
• 401k retirement plan & employer matching
• Office is located in a beautiful national park - The Presidio - with free transit to/from downtown San Francisco!
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Most importantly, input on the office snack order

COMPENSATION

Salary: $200,000 - $225,000 - negotiable depending on experience