Executive Director

About RIPIN:

KLR Executive Search is proud to partner with RIPIN, a nonprofit that empowers individuals, families, and communities through information, education, advocacy, and peer support. Grounded in the belief that people with lived experience offer uniquely practical, credible, and compassionate guidance, RIPIN helps people across the lifespan navigate healthcare, education, disability, and human-service systems.

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director leads RIPIN’s mission, strategy, finances, programs, people, and external relationships. RIPIN seeks a mission-driven, authentic, and strategic leader who will honor its peer-support model, strengthen financial sustainability, and expand the organization’s reach and influence across Rhode Island.

Key Areas of Focus:

• Strategy and Growth
  • Lead strategic planning with the Board and leadership team, evaluate new opportunities, and guide the organization through change.
• Financial Stewardship and Fundraising
  • Oversee a multi-source nonprofit budget and grow and diversify revenue through grants, contracts, philanthropy, and partnerships.
• People and Culture
  • Support and develop a talented team in an inclusive, transparent, people-centered workplace where lived experience is valued.
• Advocacy and Partnerships
  • Serve as RIPIN’s public voice with state agencies, policymakers, funders, and community partners, and extend outreach to underrepresented communities.

Job Qualifications:

• Significant senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, healthcare, human services, education, disability, advocacy, or related mission-driven environment.
• Experience managing complex budgets and securing funding through grants, contracts, philanthropy, or partnerships.
• Strong public speaking, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience leading through change and developing managers and teams.
• Professional and/or lived experience connected to disability, family support, caregiving, healthcare navigation, education, advocacy, or peer-based services.
• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of Rhode Island’s healthcare, human-services, and public-policy landscape is preferred.

RIPIN is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates of all backgrounds. RIPIN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the search process upon request.