Executive Director

About Lee County Youth Development Center (LCYDC)

Founded in 1973, the Lee County Youth Development Center (LCYDC) is a leading regional provider of youth and family services, serving children from across East Alabama through prevention, intervention, and residential programs. Located in Opelika on a campus originally donated by the George King family, LCYDC has become an essential pillar of the community that is known for its deep compassion, professional integrity, and commitment to strengthening families and rebuilding lives.

LCYDC operates an integrated continuum of care that includes a juvenile detention facility, foster care and family reunification programs, residential behavioral and therapeutic services, transitional and independent living programs, and the Chanticleer Learning Center, which provides on-site education for youth in care. The organization also partners with Auburn University’s Project Uplift, creating a bridge between local youth and the higher education community.

Over the last several years, LCYDC has undergone significant operational and leadership transitions as it modernizes internal systems and programs to meet evolving standards of care. Its long-serving leadership and staff have ensured continuity and stability through these changes, and the organization remains financially sound and highly regarded across Alabama’s social service network.

The Center maintains strong relationships with local and state agencies, including the Alabama Department of Human Resources, the juvenile courts, and regional school districts. LCYDC’s work is closely tied to the community—it collaborates regularly with the mayors of Auburn and Opelika, the Lee County Commission, law enforcement, and a wide array of civic and nonprofit partners. The next Executive Director will lead an organization that combines operational scale with deep community trust, poised for a new chapter of impact and innovation.

About the Opportunity

The Executive Director serves as LCYDC’s chief executive officer and is responsible for all aspects of leadership, strategy, and community engagement. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director oversees operations, finances, and programs while fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and compassion.

This role represents a rare opportunity to lead one of Alabama’s most respected youth and family service organizations through its next phase of development. The incoming Executive Director will have the support of a dedicated board and experienced staff while shaping LCYDC’s future vision. Success in this role will require a leader who is highly relational, visible, and comfortable working both on the ground and at the strategic level building partnerships, managing complex systems, and inspiring confidence across stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic and Organizational Leadership

You will guide the organization’s long-term vision, ensuring that LCYDC continues to meet community needs while maintaining excellence in care and service delivery. This includes working closely with the Board and senior team to shape strategic goals and align resources with mission priorities.

• Lead all programs and services in alignment with LCYDC’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to establish a multi-year strategic plan focused on program quality, staff development, and measurable outcomes.
• Build and maintain a cohesive executive leadership team that promotes collaboration and accountability.
• Serve as the organization’s ambassador, representing LCYDC at community events, professional networks, and with local and state partners.

Operations and Administration

This role requires a hands-on operational leader capable of managing complex service lines with diverse staff. You will ensure that daily operations across detention, foster care, educational, and behavioral health programs run smoothly and in full compliance with safety and quality standards.

• Oversee day-to-day operations across all LCYDC programs.
• Supervise and support senior leaders including the Deputy Director, CFO, HR Specialist, and Program Directors.
• Strengthen internal systems for HR, risk management, and safety.
• Drive initiatives to improve morale, retention, and professional growth across departments.

Fiscal Oversight

LCYDC’s sustainability depends on disciplined financial management and strategic growth. You will work closely with the CFO and Finance Committee to manage budgets, ensure compliance with all funding agreements, and position the organization for continued stability and expansion.

• Manage an annual operating budget of approximately $10 million with accountability for financial performance and compliance.
• Oversee budgeting, reporting, and audit processes.
• Maintain strong relationships with funding agencies, including DHR, Medicaid, and county partners.
• Identify new funding sources and partnerships to enhance program sustainability.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance

LCYDC operates in a highly regulated environment that demands constant vigilance. You will ensure that all programs meet accreditation standards and contractual obligations while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

• Ensure compliance with all applicable licensing, accreditation, and Medicaid requirements.
• Maintain readiness for audits, inspections, and accreditation reviews.
• Oversee quality assurance and risk management frameworks that safeguard youth and staff.

Community and Government Relations

LCYDC’s effectiveness relies on its reputation and partnerships within the community. You will serve as the organization’s primary representative, building relationships that strengthen its local impact and ensure broad public support.

• Cultivate partnerships with the Lee County Commission, local mayors, law enforcement, courts, and school systems.
• Act as spokesperson for LCYDC in the media and at public forums.
• Engage community leaders and partner organizations to promote collaborative solutions to youth and family challenges.

Board Relations and Governance

Working in partnership with the Board, you will maintain open communication and ensure sound governance. Your leadership will help the Board make informed decisions and remain strategically engaged.

• Provide transparent and timely updates on operations, finances, and programs.
• Support Board development and participation in strategic planning.
• Ensure alignment between Board policy and operational execution.

Qualifications & Experience

You are the person who can lead a multi-program, mission-driven organization at scale, bringing strategic and operational strength, a track record of service to youth and families, and comfort operating in both bureaucratic and community environments.

• Master’s degree in social work, psychology, education, administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in family and children’s services, including supervisory and administrative responsibilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex operations, including budgets exceeding $5 million and teams of 75 or more.
• Strong understanding of youth and family service systems, including DHR and juvenile justice.
• Proven track record in compliance, accreditation, and performance management.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to engage staff, families, and public officials.
• Experience leading during organizational transition or change.

Preferred:

• LCSW or comparable state licensure.
• Familiarity with CoA accreditation and Alabama’s DHR standards.
• Experience with Lee County or other comparable communities in the region.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $125,000 to $145,000, commensurate with experience Relocation: Support available for candidates relocating to Alabama

1. Employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance.
2. Paid time off, holidays, and family leave.
3. Participation in a retirement plan.
4. Professional development and continuing education support.

To Apply

This search is being conducted by Jamal Sekou, Associate Partner at Thinking Ahead Executive Search. Nominations and applications, including a resume and cover letter, should be submitted via the application link via Idealist.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Relocation: Support available for candidates relocating to Alabama

1. Employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance.
2. Paid time off, holidays, and family leave.
3. Participation in a retirement plan.
4. Professional development and continuing education support.