AddressMichigan Advocacy Program works to advance the safety, independence, and economic stability of those most affected by poverty, racism, and other structurally oppressive systems by increasing access to justice and working for systemic solutions.
The Executive Director is an ambassador and advocate for the mission of MAP. The Executive Director is responsible for the organization's consistent achievement of its mission through relevant programs, strategic planning, advocacy and outreach, as well as meeting financial objectives and oversight of the operations of the organization.
Reports to: Board President and Board of Directors
Key Responsibilities
Strategy and Operations Facilitation:
- Collaborate with Board in execution of vision and strategies
- Provide leadership in developing strategic, organizational and financial plans with the Board of Directors and staff, and carry out plans and policies authorized by the board
- Maintain a working knowledge of significant developments and trends in the legal services arena
Funding and Partnerships:
- Nurture and manage relationships with the over 50 grant funders supporting the work of MAP agencies, including federal and state entities
- Provide leadership and collaboration to Development Director, ensuring goals are clear and progress is measured regularly
- Collaborate with partners and community agencies to leverage the mission and pursue solutions
- Exceptional relationship management with partners, community groups, funders and governmental leaders
Champion Exceptional Service Delivery:
- Communicate with the Board to ensure they are fully informed on all activities and matters of importance to the mission of MAP
- Report metrics against the strategic plan, with input from Board Members and Committees; alert Board Members to concerns about financial and other impacts
- Strategize for impact advocacy, organizational representations, pro bono involvement, and co-counselled cases
- Provide support and leadership in the oversight of legal work, including occasional direct involvement in appeals, co-counsel, organizational representation, or troubleshooting
Team Relations/Supervision:
- Build a high-performing, mission-driven team. Responsible for the recruitment, coaching, and performance management of team members
- Ensure that responsibilities are clearly documented, regular evaluations are held, and sound personnel management practices are in place
- Maintain a culture which attracts, retains, and motivates a diverse team
The Qualified Candidate
Michigan Advocacy Program seeks a mission-focused, proven legal executive. The successful candidate will have proven leadership experience with prior success in leading a complex series of partnerships and programs. The selected candidate will be goal oriented, collaborative, and a strategic thinker.
Specific requirements include:
Education and Experience
- Juris Doctorate with admission to Michigan State Bar Association or eligible for waiver
- Seven or more years of progressively responsible experience at a senior level in an organization focused on poverty law, civil legal aid, and/or advocacy on behalf of underserved individuals and communities
- Experience working with a multi-disciplinary team
- Proven experience in responding to shifting funder and regulatory requirements
- Experience working with a volunteer board
Competencies and Attributes
- Ability to exercise a high degree of judgment and diplomacy as well as maintaining the highest integrity and ethics
- Solid, persuasive verbal and written communications skills, including the ability to deliver inspiring and succinct presentations and conduct productive meetings
- A proven record of working collaboratively and diplomatically with others
- Demonstrated ability to build a diverse team and effectively manage, motivate, and mentor staff
- A demonstrated commitment to the concept of access to justice for low-income and underserved communities
- Strong business acumen; decision making skills; ability to set priorities; process and project management skills
This position offers a competitive salary with benefits with a salary range of $155,000.00 - $185,000.00. This position is based in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
