Executive Director Career Opportunity
The Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) is an affiliate of the Autism Society of America, the largest and oldest grassroots Autism organization. ASGA’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully and serves Summit, Stark, Medina, Portage, and Wayne counties in Ohio. Founded in 1987 by parents of children with Autism, the organization began as a means for parents to exchange information and advocate for improved services for their children. Today ASGA has a budget of $750,000, seven staff members and 250 volunteers, and provides support, education, skills enhancement, inclusive events, support and advocacy. Key programs include information and referral, support and social clubs, adapted community events, ICan Bike, Swimming with Autism, and Autism Friendly Communities. ASGA also hosts two annual Step into Autism walks to raise funds for local programs and holds a biennial Autism Summit to bring together professionals, providers, parents and advocates.
Executive Director, Autism Society of Greater Akron, Akron, Ohio
The Autism Society of Greater Akron is seeking a dynamic, collaborative and experienced leader to partner with the Board of Directors to implement the priorities of our current strategic plan:
- Provide high-quality, sustainable programs and services that are closely aligned with the ASGA mission.
- Maintain existing partnerships and seek new partnerships that increase program impact, financial support and community visibility.
- Maintain financial strength and sustainability through program revenue growth and enhanced fundraising activity, careful risk management, and ongoing accountability.
- Increase our public visibility and the community’s understanding of our services and our impact.
- Develop and maintain strong board leadership and a high-performing workforce.
The ED will work with the Board of Directors to develop strategies to achieve goals for organizational performance, emphasizing service quality and long-term financial stability. Key responsibilities include:
Vision and Strategy
- In partnership with the board and staff, align the organization around a compelling vision that will attract human and financial resources to support our work.
- Ensure that the Autism Society mission and core values are upheld to provide the organization with a compass to guide us toward our vision.
- Develop goals, strategies and tactics in the form of annual plans that provide accountability.
- Align ASGA programs and services with the priorities of the Autism Society of America.
Leadership
- Build a sense of belonging for those who have found their way to ASGA, ensuring that our organization is diverse, equitable and inclusive.
- Create a passion for the Autism Society mission with all stakeholders, encouraging them to invite others to join in our work.
- Model the leadership you want to see in others by demonstrating humility, accountability and integrity.
Board Partnership
- Build, cultivate and nurture a true partnership with the Board of Directors built on mutual respect and trust.
- Provide board members with the resources, information, and training necessary to fulfill their duties and to be ambassadors for ASGA.
- Actively engage with the Governance Committee to identify prospective board members who bring the skills, attributes, and lived experience necessary for the board to be the best partner it can be.
Management
- Build, lead, and retain an effective and diverse staff team dedicated to the Autism Society mission and with the requisite skills to be successful in their work.
- Establish effective decision-making at all levels to ensure that voices are heard and that short- and long-term goals are met.
- Ensure that ASGA is fiscally sound, that financial reporting to relevant parties is handled in a timely manner, and that financial information is communicated in a manner accessible to all.
Impact
- Oversee programs that are designed with a deep understanding of the individuals and families we serve and that align with our mission and our strategic plan.
- Regularly assess the array of programs to ensure that we are adapting to the needs of our community.
- Bring a spirit of innovation to the program work with an eye toward piloting new ideas that could be incorporated into or will maximize existing work.
Growing Resources
- Serve as the chief fundraiser of the organization, working with staff, board, and volunteers to develop and implement the annual fundraising plan.
- With an understanding that fundraising is relational, ensure that donor relations are maintained through stewardship.
The ideal candidate will embody the core values of the Autism Society and bring leadership and strategic insights to the work through the following skills and characteristics:
- Has a deep belief in and passion for the Autism Society mission.
- Has extensive experience with Autism or other developmental disabilities.
- Is a compelling communicator and storyteller.
- Has a keen understanding of the importance of listening, meeting people where they are and engaging in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders.
- Leads and manages with intention.
- Is culturally responsive and emotionally intelligent.
- Is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion.
- Demonstrates compassion and empathy, especially in times of crisis.
- Understands how modern technologies can be applied to solving organizational challenges.
- Leads and manages with a growth mindset, open to learning and adapting.
- Is a courageous and compassionate truth-teller.
Education and experience: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required; master’s degree preferred. Minimum of ten years of experience in management, development, marketing or related field, preferably with a nonprofit organization serving individuals with disabilities. Five years of senior leadership and supervisory experience are necessary. Experience working with leadership volunteers highly desirable. Must have track record of success in developing and implementing strategic initiatives.
Job Requirements: Must hold a valid driver’s license and pass pre-employment background check. This is a full-time position that requires the ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends as necessary. Minimal travel required.
Annual Salary: $90,000 to $100,000, commensurate with experience.
Application: Inquiries, referrals and cover letters/applications may be directed in confidence via email to: search@autismakron.org. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Friday, July 26.