Director of Programs

Organization Description:

Founded in 2016, Focused Interruption was created by a small group of community members, many of whom have been directly impacted by gun violence and the criminal justice system. These volunteers were committed to taking action to end the growing gun violence in Dane County. Over five years, Focused Interruption has provided counseling and support to over 300 victims and perpetrators of gun violence, visiting area hospitals at all hours of night and day partnered with the City of Madison to address gun violence.

Our mission is to use a holistic approach to reduce generational trauma by providing evidence-based intervention and prevention services to the people, neighborhoods, and families most impacted by gun violence.​

Position Summary:

The Director of Programs is a vital leadership role responsible for overseeing the implementation and evaluation of various initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence in Greater Madison. This position plays a critical role in overseeing and improving the organization's Outreach and Community Safety Worker programs. This position involves supervising program staff, ensuring adherence to job responsibilities, and fostering a positive and productive work environment. The Director of Programs is responsible for coaching, supporting, and training staff, as well as coordinating with external service providers and organizational partners to enhance the effectiveness of Focused Interruption’s initiatives. The Director will report to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and work closely with UW Health/UWCHA grant administrator, and other community partners to achieve the goals of Focused Interruption.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Program Strategy and Development:
   • Develop and implement a comprehensive program strategy aligned with the organization's mission and goals.
   • Lead the design, planning, and execution of innovative programs and initiatives to address community needs and challenges related to WI Community Safety Fund.
2. Team Leadership and Development:
   • Supervise, mentor, and empower program managers and staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
   • Provide guidance, coaching, and professional development opportunities to enhance the skills and capabilities of the program team.
3. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Work closely with UWHCA grant administrator to high quality deliverables.
   • Collaborate with community partners, government agencies, and other stakeholders to identify programmatic opportunities and build strategic alliances.
   • Engage with beneficiaries and community members to assess needs, gather feedback, and ensure programs are responsive to community requirements.
4. Program Implementation and Monitoring:
   • Oversee the successful implementation of programs, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
   • Work with Data Analyst to develop and implement robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess program effectiveness and impact.
5. Resource Management:
   • Manage program budgets, allocate resources effectively, and ensure fiscal responsibility in program expenditures.
   • Identify and secure funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to support program sustainability and expansion.
6. Quality Assurance and Compliance:
   • Establish and enforce program quality assurance standards, ensuring programs meet regulatory requirements and best practices.
   • Monitor compliance with federal and private funding regulations, reporting requirements, and programmatic benchmarks.
7. Reporting:
   • Work with Data Analyst and program staff to prepare comprehensive reports for internal stakeholders, funders, and board members, detailing program achievements, challenges, and future plans.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in social work, public health, a related field, or relative years of experience.
• At least 5 years of experience in program management, staff supervision, and team leadership, preferably in community outreach or violence prevention initiatives.
• Strong communication, coaching, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to improve program outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Focused Interruption, with a focus on social justice and community empowerment.

This position is a full-time, exempt position based in Madison, Wisconsin. Focused Interruption does not provide work visa sponsorship or relocation assistance for this position.

Focused Interruption provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Focused Interruption complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Salary Range: $65,000-$75,000

TO APPLY:

Send an email to info@focusedinterruption.org titled ‘Director of Programs Application – Name’. Include:

• • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.