Executive Director

Catholic Charities, an esteemed charitable and social services agency affiliated with the Diocese of Des Moines, is dedicated to providing compassionate support and assistance to individuals and families in need throughout our community. With a rich history spanning a century, we remain committed to upholding the values of dignity, compassion, and justice in all our endeavors.

We are currently seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as the Executive Director of Catholic Charities. The Executive Director will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission and ensuring the effective delivery of vital services to those we serve. This individual will provide strategic direction, foster collaborative relationships, and oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization.

Summary:

The Executive Director serves as the primary leader of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Des Moines, responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization's operations, including governance, program development, financial management, fundraising, community engagement, and staff leadership. The role reports to the Bishop and Board of Directors and requires a deep commitment to the mission and values of Catholic Charities, rooted in the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Board and Governance Relations:

Fosters the involvement and development of the Board of Directors to advance the organization's mission and strategic objectives. Promotes seamless communication and cooperation among the board, committees, and staff. Formulates and presents budgetary plans and fundraising targets.

Strategic Leadership:

Leads the creation and execution of the organization's Strategic Plan, ensuring alignment with its mission and objectives. Stays abreast of organizational and community trends to pinpoint service requirements and program growth prospects. Conducts routine progress evaluations with leadership teams to assess performance and adjust strategies as needed.

Social Justice:

Collaborates with the Diocese and stakeholders to advance social justice initiatives, including advancement of Catholic Identity and Hiring for Mission initiatives. Oversees advocacy, awareness, and educational efforts on social justice issues. Promotes understanding and application of Catholic Social Teaching within the organization and broader community.

Administration and Organization Leadership:

Oversees general operations, ensuring adherence to policies and standards. Mentors leadership teams for optimal performance and professional development. Makes strategic decisions to foster organizational growth and sustainability.

Financials, Facilities, and Funding Oversight:

Responsible for managing financial performance and budgeting processes, presenting reports to the Board to evaluate fiscal and performance of the organization. Negotiates Services Agreement with the diocese. For in-kind services.

Development, Fundraising, Marketing:

Collaborates on donor relations and fundraising strategies and plans. Advance gifts and giving through the participation of Catholic Charities board members and community constituents. Participates in the organization's annual appeal campaign.

Programs Leadership and Oversight:

Ensures compliance with regulations, accreditation standards, and grant and risk management requirements. Monitors program performance and outcomes. Oversees negotiation and approval of contracts and grants with governmental agencies, private funders, and vendors.

External and Community Relationships:

Represents the organization with community partners, funders and stakeholders. Serves on relevant boards, committees, and task forces. Cultivates relationships with parish communities and stakeholders.

Internal Relationships:

Fosters a positive work environment, collaborates with leadership teams to plan and evaluate programs, and ensures alignment with the organization's mission, vision, and strategic plan as rooted in the Catholic Social Teachings.

Personal Characteristics, Mission and Values

The Executive Director should embody the values, mission, ministry, and legacy of Catholic Charities, demonstrating a strong commitment to serving vulnerable populations and promoting social justice.

• Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church.
• Advanced degree in social work, human services, public administration, business, or a related field is required; or equivalent education and experience may also be considered.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a nonprofit, social services, or related field, with a record of progressive leadership, management and operational responsibilities.
• Demonstrated commitment to the values and teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Proven track record of strategic planning, program development, and organizational management.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in fundraising, grant and financial management.
• Ability to inspire and motivate staff and community partners.
• Knowledge of social justice issues and a passion for serving those in need.
• Ability to successfully pass a child abuse registry check and criminal background check