Manager Board Relations

The Jackson Laboratory • Bar Harbor, ME

3d • Remote

About The Position

Reporting to the Chief of Staff and serving as a key member of the Executive Office, the Manager of Board Relations plays a critical role in enhancing the operations and engagement of the Board of Trustees and its committees. This position ensures seamless Board operations by leading the coordination of meetings, materials, communications, and governance processes with a high degree of professionalism, precision, and discretion. The Manager of Board Relations serves as the central point of contact for day-to-day Board activities and works closely with the CEO, Chief of Staff, executive leadership team, Advancement, and Legal to enable strong governance practices and meaningful Trustee engagement. This role combines operational excellence with strategic awareness, helping translate Board priorities into well-executed plans and high-quality experiences. Remote with travel to JAX locations

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 5-7 years of relevant experience supporting boards or senior governance bodies in a complex organization
• Demonstrated ability to manage high-stakes meetings and executive-level operations
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and tight deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce polished, executive-level materials
• Proven ability to build trusted relationships with senior leaders, Trustees, and cross-functional partners
• High level of discretion and judgment in handling sensitive information
• Detail-oriented with strong follow-through and commitment to operational excellence
• Ability to anticipate needs, solve problems proactively, and adapt in a dynamic environment
• Proficiency with digital tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Board portals, virtual meeting platforms)
• Professional presence and executive maturity, with the ability to represent the Executive Office with credibility
• Calm, composed, and solutions-oriented under pressure
• Highly collaborative, with a strong service mindset
• Strategic orientation paired with strong execution skills
• Strong interpersonal judgement and ability to navigate complex dynamics
• Willingness to travel (~25%)

Nice To Haves

• Experience in nonprofit, academic, scientific, or healthcare environment strongly preferred

Responsibilities

• Serves as the primary day-to-day liaison to the Board of Trustees, ensuring clear communication, coordination, and exceptional support
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with Board members
• Plans and manages logistics for all in-person and virtual Board and Committee meetings and events, including venue selection, contract negotiations, site visits, technology, and on-site execution
• Coordinates meeting run-of-show, prepares presenters, and ensures seamless delivery of Board and Committee sessions
• Attends meetings and provides real-time coordination and problem-solving support
• Plans and manages the annual Board budget, ensuring sufficient use of resources and diligent tracking of expenses
• Develops and produces Board materials, including agendas, Board books, reports, and presentations in partnership with the Executive Office
• Manages Board communications, including correspondence, announcements, updates, and newsletter
• Maintains Board materials and resources within the Board portal and JAX website
• Supports Board Committees by: Drafting agendas, Preparing materials and presentations, Recording minutes and decisions, Tracking action items and follow-up
• Partners with General Counsel and Corporate Secretary on governance activities, including: Maintaining committee charters, Ensuring compliance with term limits, Supporting governance reviews, Coordinating the annual Conflict of Interest process
• Supports the Chair of the Nominating & Governance Committee in Trustee recruitment, onboarding, elections, performance assessment, and related documentation
• Partners with the CEO and Chief of Staff on Trustee engagement, including scheduling, briefing materials, and follow-through
• Tracks and supports engagement with Trustees, VIPs, and special guests, ensuring strong coordination and timely follow-up
• Collaborates with Advancement on Board-related events and stewardship activities

Benefits

• Equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level