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Since its creation over 30 years ago, Central States SER-Jobs for Progress has become a vital member of many communities throughout the Chicagoland area working to transform lives by creating opportunities for education and employment. With funding of over $9 million for more than 20 programs from 14 funding sources at five main sites, Central States SER provides critical workforce development and education programs and services to so many in need.

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic person to provide leadership in advancing our mission of promoting economic self-sufficiency and upward mobility through education and employment for low-income community residents. With an outstanding professional and educational background, the next Executive Director will be innovative, accomplished, and committed to excellence in strategic organizational development and management.The successful candidate will have a proven track record of his/her ability to engage and energize the full range of diverse constituents and communitites. S/he will be a persuasive advocate for the organization, collaborative multi-cultural community builder, successful fundraiser, inspiring communicator, and catalyst for long-term continued growth and development of the organization. Strong consideration will be given to candidates that speak both English and Spanish.

The successful candidate will enjoy a competitive compensation package.

For best consideration, please send all applications electronically no later than November 15th.



JOB DESCRIPTION


POSITION TITLE: Executive Director

REPORTS TO: Vice President of Midwest Operations

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Vice President of Midwest Operations, the Executive Director is responsible for executive leadership and management, including the development and execution of the organization’s short- and long-term plans and the financial management of a multi-million dollar organization. The Executive Director is responsible for the development of the human and financial resources and policies that support the overall mission of the organization.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Adheres to and demonstrates the mission of the organization.
2. Provides leadership and managerial direction to the local staff in order to assure the most effective operation and development of the organization.
3. Under the direction of the Vice President, designs and implements the organization’s short- and long-tern strategy plans and implements throughout the organization.
4. Coordinates with the Chief Financial Officer for an effective financial management of the local organization including planning, budgeting, expenditure control, and auditing.
5. Advises the Vice President on programs and policies, progress against objectives, and the health and strength of the organization.
6. Ensures that programs and services are effectively marketed to supporting governmental agencies and corporate sector organizations, as well as the general public.
7. Maintains and further develops the relationship between the local organization and governmental agencies at the federal, state, and local level.
8. Identifies common interests and coordinates activities and endeavors that further relationships and partnerships with the constituents in the local community.
9. Ensures a sound local organization with staff development and replacement processes.
10. Oversees process for the purchase of goods and services, subcontracts, and modifications of contractual agreements.
11. Ensures that a sound system of personnel procedures and practices are maintained in accordance with approved corporate policy to ensure equal opportunity employment opportunities and effective staffing.
12. Performs other responsibilities as assigned by the Vice President.



Equal Opportunity Employer

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Exceptional leadership and motivational talents.
• Long-term orientation in goal setting and strategic planning.
• Excellent oral and written communications.
• Extensive experience in grant writing with a proven track record of success.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly considered.
• Effective fund raising ability (public and private funds).
• Ability to effectively market the organization to funding sources and other stakeholders.
• Ability to effectively network with other professionals in the business, government, and community sectors.
• Ability to operate successfully in time-critical, high-stress situation.
• Demonstrated experience in workforce development as well as knowledge of relevant legislation.
• Knowledge of human resource legislation and procedures.
• Excellent understanding of budgeting and financial statements.
• Comfortable with extensive travel.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s Degree; Master’s Degree preferred.
• Strong business background (10+ years) in private sector, with demonstrated success at leading and managing a team and/or organization.
• Intimate knowledge of non-profits especially publicly funded programs.
• Astute and adept skills at building consensus and communicating ideas in a political environment.
• Strong presence and networking skilled with agencies and elected officials (local, regional, & national) and with corporate representatives.

Submit resume/cv and cover letter to executivesearch@centralstatesser.org.