Director of Financial Assistance

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Director of the Financial Assistance Program (FAP) is an integral player in a small but mighty team working hard each day to make life better for thousands of New Yorkers who are struggling to survive.

The Director of FAP will provide leadership, program oversight, and operational management of our efforts to deliver rental arrears and other financial aid to households at risk of eviction or homelessness, and/or suffering from financial instability due to debt. The Director will oversee program operation, reporting, and outcomes, ensuring that services align with organizational goals, funder requirements, and the organization’s mission.

This position requires an empathetic leader with experience working with low-income/vulnerable populations, nonprofit program management, and staff supervision, with strong skills in fiscal oversight, and community collaboration.

The Director of FAP oversees the application review process, assists with processing and reviewing applications as needed, and makes the final determination on grant allocation. Other duties of the Director of FAP include engaging in programmatic development and evaluation; providing appropriate referrals and advocacy; and building and maintaining relationships with program applicants and other community organizations.

The Director of FAP is a full-time position, and reports to the Executive Director.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Program Leadership & Oversight

• Develop, implement, and oversee all components of the Financial Assistance Program, including application enhancement, eligibility review, grant disbursement, referrals, and follow-up.
• Ensure compliance with contracts, funder guidelines, and internal policies.
• Establish performance benchmarks and outcomes.
• Use program data to evaluate outcomes, generate reports for funders, and inform program improvements.
• Serve as the primary liaison with community partners, funding agencies, and stakeholders.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Hire, train, and supervise program staff.
• Provide regular supervision, performance evaluations, and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and client-centered team environment.
• Oversee the application review process, assisting with processing and reviewing applications as needed, and ensure timely communication with applicants.

Fiscal Management

• Oversee program budget, financial assistance allocations, and timely disbursement of funds.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director to track expenditures, prepare financial reports, and ensure audit readiness.
• Monitor vendor and landlord payments, addressing delays or other issues as they arise.
• Oversee accurate documentation in Salesforce.
• Participate, as needed, in the development and drafting of funding proposals.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, funders, and government partners.
• Represent the organization at funder meetings, coalitions, and public forums.
• Advocate for client needs and contribute to policy discussions on housing affordability and eviction prevention.
• Develop and maintain working knowledge of relevant social services systems/agencies, including the NYC Human Resources Administration’s One-Shot Deal program, rules and guidelines; housing programs and procedures; benefits and entitlements programs.

REQUIREMENTS:

• This position is remote. Some in-office time for meetings and events will be required, so applicants should be local to the tri-state area.

QUALITIES/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Passion and interest in Xavier Mission’s mission and values.
• Compassionate and understanding.
• Relevant work experience with similar clientele in non-profits, social work, Peace Corps/other volunteer service, or a related field required.
• Master’s degree in nonprofit management, public administration, social work, or a related field strongly preferred; equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• Ability to develop trust and sustain relationships with people of diverse backgrounds and experiences, specifically low-income and at-risk individuals.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational, administrative, and supervisory skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, allocate funds, and supervise staff effectively.
• Initiative and good judgment in prioritizing tasks.
• Tact, diplomacy, and a sense of humor.
• Collaborative and able to work effectively in a small team environment.
• Enthusiastic and easygoing.
• Hard-working and self-motivated.
• Solutions-oriented and decisive.
• Knowledge of and comfort using email and Google Workspace/Microsoft Office.
• Knowledge of or experience working with Salesforce or other CRM software preferred.
• English fluency required; proficiency in Spanish/Cantonese/Mandarin a plus.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The person in this position:

• Must be able to frequently remain in a stationary position.
• Occasionally moves about the office/home office to access file cabinets, office machinery, other offices, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer.
• Occasionally travels around New York City to attend meetings, conferences, and other organizational events.
• Occasionally travels to different cities and/or states to attend conferences or advocacy events.
• Frequently communicates with staff, donors, and clients and must be able to exchange accurate information in these interactions.

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans (fully covered for employee, percentage covered for family members)
• As-needed Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.

English fluency required; proficiency in Spanish/Cantonese/Mandarin a plus.