A Day In The Life Of A Managing Director At Street Soccer USA
A day in the life of a Managing Director at Street Soccer USA involves a mix of hands-on involvement, from still getting to "play soccer all the time" and being outside to problem-solving with staff and securing resources, because the nature of a nonprofit is "you're always trying to get people to learn about you". The career also relies heavily on relationship building and community engagement, as the director needs to be "out there representing what we do" and connecting with inspiring individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by the organization's work.
Nonprofit Leadership, Community Engagement, Problem Solving, Relationship Building, Flexible Schedule
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Lisa Wrightsman
Managing Director
Street Soccer USA
Sacramento State
Communications
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Sales and Client Management
Scholarship Recipient, Worked 20+ Hours in School, LGBTQ, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Flexibility and Variety: The managing director role involves a mix of activities, from being on the field playing soccer to handling administrative tasks like budgeting and securing building permits. The role is not confined to an office, allowing for a flexible schedule and the ability to work remotely.
2. Problem Solving and Relationship Building: A significant part of the job involves problem-solving with staff, seeking support from the community, and nurturing relationships with partners. Being available for staff needs and actively engaging with the community are crucial for success.
3. Impact and Advocacy: The role focuses on ensuring the organization's activities effectively help people and advocating for the organization's mission. This involves being visible in the community, representing the organization, and sharing success stories to inspire support and engagement.
Transcript
What does a day in the life of a managing director of a nonprofit look like?
I think my job could look different. I have a pretty sweet job because I still get to play soccer all the time and be outside. I also set my own schedule.
We're an efficient nonprofit. This means we don't have big offices or pay for a building. All of our work involves coaching and giving soccer to the community.
Because of technology today, I don't have to do a lot of my work in an office. I can do it anywhere. Most of my work involves problem-solving with the staff.
As a nonprofit, we need people to buy into our mission and learn about us. We also need to show people our value. We constantly check if our work is actually helping people.
We're always asking ourselves if we're doing what we say we're doing. If we are, we need to get people to support us.
Every day, a thousand things can come up. I might have to request a building permit from the city if we want to add something to our facility. I also take calls with partners to plan for next year, create budgets, set goals, and talk to staff.
If someone wants a raise or is unhappy, they come to me. So, it's about being available and always leaving part of your day open for other people's needs.
I also try to connect with people a lot, focusing on relationships. The more relevant you are in the community and the more people know what you're doing, the more that works for you.
However, you have to be out there. I can't do my job well if I'm inside all day. I need to be out representing what we do, talking about it, and enjoying it by playing soccer.
I think this might be different from other nonprofits. I get to be around a lot of inspiring people and success stories, which are a result of our work. The best part is being around people who have truly changed their lives and are excited to share that with us.
Advizer Personal Links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-wrightsman-b8253b38/, @lisa.wrightsman, @streetsoccersac, @up_ssusa_park