The mission of Suited for Change (SFC) is to help empower low-income women in the DC metro region to escape poverty and achieve economic self-sufficiency through gainful employment. Built on the concept that a well-dressed woman is a confident woman, SFC offers eligible women the opportunity to prepare for employment through outfitting them in free, high-quality, professional attire in a supportive environment at the SFC boutique. SFC also provides career and life-skills education to these women. Over 100 organizations representing shelters, government agencies and other social service programs refer women to SFC. The organization has a strong core of volunteers who help manage and staff the SFC boutique, as well as a network of donors who provide financial support and clothing for its operations. Since its founding in 1992, SFC has assisted over 22,000 women transition into the workforce. SFC is a founding member of The Women’s Alliance, an international organization of like-minded community non-profits focused on work force development.
As it approaches its 25th anniversary, SFC seeks a dynamic Executive Director ready to lead this small but impactful organization into the next quarter century. Working closely with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will develop the strategic vision and brand positioning for the organization as it adapts to the changing needs of the community that it serves.
Summary
The Executive Director is responsible for management of day-to-day operations, management of its staff and network of volunteers, development of sustainable funding sources, including design and execution of annual events, relationships with referral partners and agencies working in complementary areas, internal and external communications, program delivery, and achievement of short and long-term goals in accordance with strategic initiatives agreed with the Board of Directors. The Executive Director serves as the ambassador of the organization representing and promoting it throughout the region and the community it serves. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors through the Board President.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Development & Fundraising
Design and implement a three-year development plan consistent with the strategic goals and budget of the organization including identifying and seeking corporate and foundation support, individual donor campaigns and fundraising activities (Current strategies include foundation grants, corporate partnerships, individual donor campaign, and annual gala and social enterprise activities);
Bi-annually evaluate and revise development and fund-raising strategy;
Design and ensure implementation of fundraising events for SFC;
Maintain accurate and detailed donor and grant application records and communication (including contribution acknowledgements and fulfilling reporting requirements).
Brand Awareness and Communications/Marketing
Development of a communications plan incorporating social media to enhance the SFC brand;
Build and enhance relationships with city officials, civic organizations, local businesses, and key community leaders to raise awareness, build client base, and promote funding for SFC and its programs;
Represent and promote SFC at local events, in the media (including social media) and other communications.
Board of Directors
Establish and maintain a strong working relationship with the Board of Directors;
Organize and participate in board meetings (minimum 4 each year), committee meetings, as needed, and annual strategic planning retreat;
Assist in recruitment, orientation, and board development.
General Operations & Programs
Maintain excellent relationships with referral organizations and identify and develop new referral partners, with the goal of increasing the number of clients served annually;
Support the recruitment and development of the Boutique committee members;
Collaborate on design and management of the Boutique, including monthly Boutique and designer sales;
Identify opportunities to expand, improve or modify suiting and workshop programs based on changing needs;
Formally assess program impact and effectiveness on not less than an annual basis for discussion with Board of Directors and propose modifications as needed;
Maintain accurate and complete records of program activities;
Provide client services as needed;
Ensure that organizational policies are in place for oversight of SFC operations; develop and revise polices as needed with the approval of Board of Directors.
Financial Management & Human Resource Functions
Manage and provide development and mentoring of office staff of one other full-time and one to two part-time employees, and many volunteers;
Recruit, train, supervise, support, and evaluate staff and volunteers;
Identify opportunities for recruitment and engagement of volunteers and interns;
Prepare annual budget for approval by the Board of Directors;
Manage relationships with auditors, bankers, insurance agents, 403(b) administrator, IT consultant, and other vendors;
Working closely with bookkeeper, maintain and have ultimate responsibility for accurate and timely financial records (cash receipts, cash disbursements, bank reconciliations, financial statements);
Manage benefits program and payroll;
In conjunction with Auditor, as necessary, oversee preparation of 990, 5500, and other regulatory filings.
Ensure that all state and organization registrations are in good standing and filed on time.
Qualifications
College education. Advanced degree preferred;
At least 5 years of management experience in a leadership role, some of which was with a non-profit organization; local non-profit community experience a plus;
Proven fundraising track record (individual, corporate, foundation, social enterprise) with demonstrated success in grant writing and leading successful fundraising efforts with corporations and individuals;
Excellent relationship management skills and expertise in building networks and promoting relationships with volunteers and partners;
Experience in event planning;
Outstanding oral and written communication skills. Public speaking experience also important;
Strong organizational and time management skills; ability to prioritize;
Experience in working effectively and closely with a Board of Directors;
Energetic, strategic, and creative team player able to motivate staff and volunteers;
Passion for SFC’s mission.
Terms of Employment
Competitive salary and other terms and conditions commensurate with experience.
Expectation of a long-term relationship.
Benefits include individual health insurance, retirement plan, generous vacation, sick, bereavement, and holiday leave.
Learn more about Suited for Change at www.suitedforchange.org.
How to apply
Please complete two parts of the submission process:
Part 1: Fill out the Suited for Change Submission Form
Part 2: Submit your cover letter and resume (including salary history) to jobs@suitedforchange.org. In the subject line, include Executive Director Positon.
No phone calls please. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
mailto:Jobs@suitedforchange.org