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