Search for new director underway

As 2014 came to a close, interviewing for a new executive director of the Massachusetts Psychological Association was underway.

Operations Manager Pamela Goodspeed, who is serving as interim executive director during the search, says the MPA would continue to accept resumes for the position through the end of January, if need be, until the position is filled. “When the right candidate is here, the timetable will move quickly,” Goodspeed says.

Former Executive Director Elena Eisman, Ed.D., who also served as director of professional affairs, stepped down from her post a year ago, after more than 20 years in the role. Goodspeed was appointed to the interim post in July and Michael Goldberg, Ph.D., has been filling in in the role of director of professional affairs.

Goodspeed has been enjoying her time in the role. “It has been fabulous,” she says. “My operations manager position has set me in a perfect position to do this.”

The search for a new executive director is being conducted by Third Sector New England’s Executive Transitions Program with Transition Consultant John Tarvin.

Since Eisman’s departure, MPA has been jointly led by Goodspeed, Goldberg and the officers of the board. MPA is overseen by a board of directors comprised of 16 members, four of whom are officers, five who fill at-large positions, five who fill regional positions, one who is a student and one who is a council representative of the American Psychological Association.

According to the association, priorities for the new executive director include expanding the strength and effectiveness of MPA’s member services and its advocacy efforts; increasing the number and diversity of MPA’s membership base; respectfully, transparently and effectively leading MPA’s board and staff; ensuring the relatively small staff is effectively and efficiently utilized; and managing relationships with members, public officials and other stakeholders. Candidates will also be evaluated on their ability to serve as a public spokesperson for the MPA, both locally and nationally.