Outward Bound Vietnam is seeking experienced candidates for the position of Executive Director! Applications are invited from qualified candidates who are able to assume the role from June 2025.

ABOUT OUTWARD BOUND VIETNAM

Outward Bound has been providing programmes around the world for more than 80 years and remains a global leader in providing adventure-based learning. As part of a non-profit organisation with a mission of developing people through the outdoors, Outward Bound Vietnam (OBV) was established in 2016 and is part of the global network of Outward Bound Schools in 35 countries. OBV’s mission is to help people recognise their true potential through experiential learning programmes that include adventure, challenge and service through a journey of self-discovery in the outdoors.

THE ROLE

The Executive Director (ED) provides visionary leadership and effective management of the organisation as its heart, face, and voice. The ED is the chief steward of the Outward Bound educational model for the benefit of all and oversees the continued growth of OBV as it executes its strategic plan and vision for impact. The ED will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for leading OBV to develop and implement safe effective outdoor adventure education programmes targeted for local/international schools, young adults and corporates in Vietnam. The ED is responsible for organisational and capability development of OBV, overseeing quality programme delivery in a safe manner and the intimate engagement of OBV stakeholders, community partners, corporate clients and local authorities to ensure alignment of the long-term strategic priorities, mission and desired outdoor educational outcomes of OBV.

KEY DUTIES

The ED reports to the Governing Council, Risk Management Committee and Patron. He / She must be adept at building systems to support growth / ensure efficient operations and plays a pivotal role in guiding the organisation to significant growth. Key duties include (but not limited to):

• Oversee and manage responsibly / provide leadership / develop strategic goals and initiatives / establish and implement organisational policies and procedures / execute strategic plans within the direction set by the Board in alignment with OBV’s vision and mission.
• Steer the development of policies and systems to manage daily operations / set financial and programme goals / analyse results and take pre-emptive measures to ensure that OBV meets all financial standards / operating policies / programme commitments and legal requirements.
• Lead and manage OBV staff to ensure OBV is a well-run organisation where colleagues feel valued and are professional.

• Implement Strategic and Operational Plans approved by the OBV’s Governing Council and Risk Management Committee.

• Presentation of annual budgets and business development plans to ensure continued financial viability of OBV’s operations through sound fiscal management and prudence.

• Build strong long-term relationships with key stakeholders (public and private education institutions / youth organisations / businesses and organisations) and its support structure (local community leaders).
  • Develop positive and productive relationships throughout the Outward Bound International network / corporate organisations and associations / government ministries / agencies and authorities.
  • Ensure sound risk management policies, accountabilities and controls are place for all OBV courses, training operations and programmes in compliance with Outward Bound International (OBI), local industry risk management and safety benchmarks, best-practices and codes of conduct, and biannual OBI Programme and Safety Reviews requirements.

• Ensure OBV programmes have outcome focused learning pedagogies and impact through outdoor education.

DESIRED REQUIREMENTS

The ideal candidate is an inspirational leader and communicator with innate emotional intelligence, high levels of business acumen, and should be collaborative and decisive. Ideally the ED should have:

• An ability to think strategically with personal drive, energy, integrity, adaptability and cultural sensitivity.
• Minimum of 10 years of industry experience in outdoor education, government, non-profit organisations, or other business / related fields requiring executive strategic planning skills and effective leadership.
• Minimum 10 years of senior management experience, preferably in the field of outdoor education/education, non-profit sector / government sector and / or training and development.
• Bachelor’s and / or Master’s degree in any discipline (preferably in Outdoor Education or related educational fields) and / or post-graduate qualification in Education, Outdoor Education or related fields.
• Proven track record in managing people and leading high functioning teams effectively.
• Strong local networks and change management skills to effectively work with various stakeholders, corporate clients, staff, the media, community partners and government institutions.
• Multi-tasker and team player who can manage a diverse portfolio, handle disparate views and concerns and is able to forge alliance and consensus.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish connections with different internal and external stakeholders, and to possess the ability to influence to better meet the long-term strategic goals of OBV and OBI.
• Good public presentation skills and fluent in oral and written English.
• Good understanding of the Vietnamese market trends and applicable laws and regulations.
• The ability to communicate fluently in Vietnamese and/or being already based in Vietnam may be an advantage.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please submit a comprehensive CV along with a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and your experience relevant to the required criteria.

Please send your applications to office@obv.vn

The closing date for applications is 20 March 2025.