Executive Director

Job Overview

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of Fifty Washington Square and is responsible for organizational leadership, fiscal stewardship, strategic planning, community partnerships, compliance, and day-to-day operational effectiveness. The role works closely with the Board of Directors, Washington Square Services Corporation, Maloney Properties, staff, funders, and community partners to advance the organization’s mission, strengthen long-term sustainability, and support individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability.

Fifty Washington Square provides 93 permanent LIHTC and HUD subsidized apartments, 41 bed emergency shelter, case management, referrals, employment assistance and supportive services for adults experiencing homelessness, including individuals facing behavioral health, substance use, domestic violence, and other complex challenges. The Executive Director also provides strategic oversight for affiliated social enterprise and workforce development initiatives, including St. Paul’s Thrift Shop, which supports shelter sustainability and client self-sufficiency.

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead our organization with passion, strategic insight, and a commitment to excellence. In this pivotal role, you will oversee all facets of organizational operations, ensuring that our mission to serve individuals with developmental disabilities and underserved communities is fulfilled with integrity and compassion. As the chief leader, you will foster a positive organizational culture, build strong relationships with stakeholders, and drive innovative program development that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Your leadership will inspire staff, promote compliance with regulatory standards, and advance our social service initiatives through effective management and community engagement.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

· Provide strategic, mission-driven leadership and ensure organizational activities align with the Fifty Washington Square’s mission, values, goals, and long-range plan.

· Partner with the Board of Directors and Maloney Properties on governance, policy implementation, board reporting, strategic initiatives, and organizational priorities.

· Oversee emergency shelter, housing, case management, supportive service, employment assistance, and community-based programs.

· Ensure services are high-quality, trauma-informed, person-centered, culturally responsive, and aligned with applicable funder and regulatory requirements.

Monitor program performance, client outcomes, operational effectiveness, and opportunities for continuous improvement.

· Maintain a safe, welcoming, respectful environment for residents, tenants, staff, volunteers, partners, and visitors.

· With financial staff at Washington Square Services Corporation and Maloney Properties, oversee regulatory obligations, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, financial controls, grant administration, contract management, and required reporting.

· Present financial information, key risks, operational needs, and strategic recommendations to the Board of Directors.

· Lead fundraising, donor cultivation, grant development, sponsorship, and community giving efforts in collaboration with the Board.

· Build relationships with foundations, government agencies, businesses, civic organizations, individual donors, and community partners.

· Serve as a visible ambassador and spokesperson for the organization throughout Newport County and Rhode Island.

· Advocate for policies and resources that address homelessness, housing instability, workforce participation, and behavioral health needs.

Qualifications

Required Credentials & Experience

· Education: Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, social work, human services, public administration, or a related field required; master’s degree preferred.

· Experience: Minimum of five years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, housing, behavioral health, social service, or community-based organization.

· Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of homelessness services, housing systems, workforce development, behavioral health services, nonprofit operations, fundraising, grant administration, and community partnerships. Knowledge of social work principles and experience working within behavioral health frameworks is preferred.

· Skills: Strong financial management, strategic planning, public speaking, relationship-building, staff leadership, board relations, and change management skills. Exceptional written communication skills for report writing, policy development, and client correspondence. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reporting and communication purposes.

Join us as an Executive Director to lead a dedicated team committed to transforming lives through innovative social services! Your leadership will shape impactful programs that empower individuals from all backgrounds while fostering a supportive environment for staff growth and community engagement.

Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person