Director of Strategy & Programs

Director of Strategy & Programs
Overview and History:
For over 50 years, The Ark has been the only Chicago organization to provide human services to the Jewish community with a comprehensive, holistic approach. Our goal is to empower individuals on their path to self-reliance. Through the powerful, empathetic team who work closely with Jewish people facing financial, employment, medical and emotional challenges, we help our clients achieve a stronger future.  
The Ark has a new opportunity available for an innovative Director of Strategy & Programs. This role has significant growth potential in several areas. The chosen individual will be the point person for the organization’s strategic planning initiatives, implementation of newly developed programs and cross-functional integration. As a newly added leadership opportunity, this role demands experience in directing transformational initiatives, success in human services, program development, professional team management, and strategic planning/implementation. The ideal candidate will have an analytical approach, manage current programs and pivot seamlessly in managing additional programming. This position reports directly to the CEO.

Key Responsibilities:
• Develop and implement strategic plan, operational priorities, and serve as a leader in advancement of the mission
• Design and implement programs and delivery channels that best serve current and future clients 
• Analyze core programs, determining impact, growth potential, and financial sustainability
• Identify opportunities to leverage cross-program strengths, pursue new initiatives and fulfill organizational priorities. Promote collaboration and professional growth 
• Develop measurement processes and reporting mechanisms to ensure progress
• Develop and manage program team and budget supporting core services for economic stability
• Maintain/grow relationships with funders, community leaders and community partners 

Qualifications & Skills:
• 5+ years significant management/supervisory experience in social services areas and non-profit management preferably with an advanced degree in relevant field
• Action-oriented, entrepreneurial, and motivational management style 
• Experience developing and implementing strategy
• Ability to recognize incubation, acceleration and/or partnership opportunities aligning with priorities 
• Able to conceptualize frameworks, engage in collaborative processes, demonstrate critical thinking, and utilize data to inform decision making and program change 
• Demonstrated ability to be analytical and to build trusting partnerships with staff  
• Highly proficient in technology, including Microsoft Office and Salesforce 
• Strong written/verbal and communication with dynamic public speaking skills 
• Knowledge of Jewish customs and traditions 

Benefits
• Generous PTO, Federal and Jewish Holidays (no Saturday hours)
• Hours: M-Th 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM F-9:00 AM-2 PM
• Competitive salary
• Excellent comprehensive benefits package

The Ark is an equal-opportunity employer.