Executive Director

POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director (ED) will have fiduciary oversight for the organization's assets, including fundraising, expansion, business operations, and execution of its mission. The ED will manage and have operational responsibility for DSAP's staff, volunteers and programs. In collaboration with the Board of Directors, the ED will develop and implement successful fundraising plans. This leadership role requires strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to maintain and establish relationships with diverse community members, groups, and stakeholders. Responsibilities include:

Leadership & Advocacy

• Demonstrate sensitivity, awareness, and commitment to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families
• Develop and maintain strong relationships in the Greater Pittsburgh Region, with peer organizations and diverse community stakeholders
• Promote and effectively communicate the organization's mission, vision, goals, and strategies to all stakeholders
• Actively engage with partnering organizations and maintain purposeful relationships with funders
• Protect DSAP's legal interests and maintain its operations within the law
• Offer advice and refer resources related to Down syndrome to families and community members
• Promote a positive public image of individuals with Down syndrome
• Assist in the development of a strong board of directors

Programs & Services

• Create and manage programs and services that support the strategic plan and mission of DSAP
• Develop systems of program evaluation and tracking community participation in DSAP’s programming/events
• Maintain data to ensure accountability to internal and external stakeholders
• Provide periodic updates of programs to the board
• Build alliances, strategic partnerships, and collaborations with other organizations to develop new programming opportunities and initiatives for individuals with Down syndrome
• Administer, manage budget, supervise, and help implement special large-scale events and fundraisers in a cost-effective manner

Board, Staff & Volunteer Engagement

• Collaborate with the volunteer Board of Directors for tasks including, but not limited to participating as a non-voting member of the Executive Committee and the Board-at-large; ensuring adherence to the bylaws with a commitment to fulfilling the organization’s strategic plan and mission; working in partnership with board committees providing updates and feedback as needed
• Lead, coach, develop, recruit and retain interns/students, volunteers, and staff
• Solicit and secure volunteers for programs and events in collaboration with staff and Board
• Develop training opportunities for BOD, staff, and volunteers; orient new board members and staff to the organization; provide management and supervision for staff
• Perform annual and periodic performance reviews of staff in collaboration with the Executive Committee. Provide feedback to interns/students and volunteers as needed

Revenue Generation

• In collaboration with the Program Coordinator, the ED will develop, plan, and execute standalone revenue-generating events annually that align with the mission of the organization, including the planning and execution of the annual Pittsburgh Buddy Walk®
• Create and direct marketing campaigns for fundraising and programs
• Design, communicate, and execute revenue-generating plans for annual fund solicitations
• Maintain incumbent partners and donors as well as proactively seek new sources of revenue (including grant funding)
• Develop opportunities for non-monetary planned gifts, personal property donations, and gifts-in-kind

Public Relations & Communication

• Network with national organizations (NDSS, NDSC, DSDN, LuMind, Global Down Syndrome Foundation, DSAIA) and other Down syndrome-related groups
• In collaboration with the Program Coordinator, maintain the DSAP brand and network to increase engagement of DSAP’s social media channels
• Adhere to social media policies set forth in the Employee Handbook
• Oversee Program Coordinator in managing DSAP’s communications, including electronic newsletters and the DSAP website
• Serve as the media contact for DSAP by communicating regularly with stakeholders and the public (e.g., annual reports, and public events)

Administration & Operations

• Develop, maintain, and improve organizational software and infrastructure
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the organization
• Participate in the strategic planning process
• Manage all administrative activities (including but not limited to maintaining files of documents such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, IRS Form 990, audit reports, Board-related documents, and contracts)

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum

• Understanding and passion for advocacy of the Down syndrome community and their families
• Bachelor’s degree in social services, healthcare, business management, non-profit management, public administration or related fields
• At least three to five years of professional experience in nonprofit management or related fields
• Strong marketing, public relations, and fundraising experience with the ability to engage a wide range of diverse backgrounds
• Knowledge of leadership and management principles for nonprofit organizations
• Proven success working with a board of directors
• Entrepreneurial mindset, with an innovative approach to business planning
• Dynamic and charismatic team player who enjoys being the public face of an organization
• Experience with creating, organizing, and managing large-scale budgets
• Proficiency in Google Workspace; Microsoft Office Products: CRM/Event Management
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills across diverse constituent groups and audiences

Preferred

• Master’s degree in business, public administration, healthcare related fields, or human and social service disciplines
• Proficiency in website software including Firespring, Bloomerang, Flipcause, Canva, Constant Contact, Square Platform, and Flickr
• Graphic design (and/or skilled in Canva/Photoshop) and professional social media engagement experience (e.g., Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads)
• Organizational development planning experience
• Experience writing and managing successful federal, state and/or foundation grants