Executive Director

JOB DESCRIPTION

Role and Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Strategy

• Take full responsibility for the agency’s day-to-day operations as authorized by the Board of Directors, reviewing and refining existing operations and infrastructure.
• Collaborate with staff, the board, and key stakeholder groups to craft, articulate, and implement a vision for DCJ’s next phase.
• Raise the visibility of an organization that has been serving Delaware’s communities for nearly 100 years by:
  • Publicizing the activities of the organization, its programs, and goals.
  • Representing the programs and point of view of the organization to agencies, organizations, and the general public.
• Activate a long-range strategy to achieve DCJ’s mission and vision, ensuring consistent and timely progress.
• Keep the board fully informed on the condition of the organization and all important factors influencing it.

Fundraising, Development & Donor Relations

• Be responsible for developing and maintaining sound financial practices
• Work with the staff, Finance Committee, and the board to prepare a budget and ensure that the organization operates within budget guidelines, both overall and by program.
• Manage DCJ’s relationships with donors, grantors, contract holders, and community partners/coalition partners.
• Maintain official records and documents and ensure federal, state, and local compliance.
• Ensure the organization meets its reporting obligations to funders, donors, and stakeholders.

Staff & Organizational Development

• Be responsible for recruiting, employing, and releasing all personnel, both paid staff and volunteers; manage, nurture, and lead a skilled, effective, and dedicated staff, including an effective management team.
• Build a collaborative organizational culture focused on continuous learning and maintain a climate that attracts, retains, and motivates a diverse team of high-quality professionals.
• Develop job descriptions, conduct regular performance evaluations, and implement sound human resource practices.
• Encourage staff and volunteer development, education, and professional growth.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Establish sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with community groups and organizations.
• Maintain a working knowledge of significant developments and trends in the criminal justice reform.
• Represent DCJ at statewide and national events, coalitions, and forums that advance justice reform efforts.

Other Duties

• Complete other duties as needed and required for the organization’s successful operation.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• At least eight to ten years of relevant leadership experience, with demonstrated success inspiring, managing, and mentoring highly talented and diverse teams.
• Extensive experience in fundraising and development, including major gifts, donor stewardship, grant writing, and special event fundraising.
• A proven track record of securing funding from diverse sources, including individuals, corporations, and foundations.
• Experience navigating strategic communications and developing relationships required for effective fundraising and donor cultivation.
• Demonstrated deep knowledge of and commitment to the social justice issues at the core of DCJ’s work and its multi-pronged approach to reform.
• Well-established success engaging in diverse communities; lived experience that informs an authentic understanding of the challenges faced by justice-involved individuals, victims of crime, and their communities.
• Demonstrated success managing budgets and finances.
• The ability to inspire collaboration while functioning decisively.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, including public speaking and relationship management.
• An undergraduate degree is required; a degree in social work, law, or another relevant field is preferred but not required.

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