Executive Director Position Available

Full-time, based in Washington DC
Send Resume and Letter of Introduction by Friday, July 10th to: TASH ED Search Committee (jobs@tash.org).

Founded in 1975, TASH is a values-driven, cross-disability advocacy organization of self-advocates, families, researchers, professionals, policy-makers, and others who work together to formulate solutions to tough barriers. The inclusive practices we validate through research lead to inclusive, more tolerant communities. TASH’s mission is to promote full inclusion and participation of children and adults with complex disabilities and support needs in every aspect of their community, and to eliminate social injustices that diminish human rights.

Job Summary: TASH’s Executive Director serves as the public presence and chief strategy officer for this exciting, progressive, and values-based organization. TASH is seeking a candidate who can find solutions where others see dead ends; believes in the capacity and human rights of people for whom TASH advocates; and who finds this leadership opportunity in a social justice advocacy organization personally and professional motivating. The Executive Director works with and coordinates TASH’s priority activities with the Board of Directors, Chapters, and TASH Committees. The Executive Director is responsible for translating the association’s mission into action through collaboration with both internal and external constituencies, advocacy, and education. Ability to travel is an essential part of the Executive Director’s duties, as is the ability to communicate powerfully about the organization’s mission. The Executive Director is responsible for all organizational functions, including supervising & evaluating staff, and reports directly to the Executive Board. This is a full-time, at-will position.

Essential duties and responsibilities: The primary functions of this position include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Participates with the Board, Chapters, staff and members in charting a course for the organization to meet the needs of the membership and the needs of people with disabilities and their families; assuring a strong future for the organization, and accomplishing positive change for people with disabilities and their families.
  • Takes a leadership role in managing government relations, developing public policy strategies, initiating action, participation in collaborative efforts, and informing the board and members regarding relevant issues.
  • Builds and maintains positive and supportive relationships with chapters.
  • Serves as a spokesperson to enhance TASH’s visibility and to promote the organization’s mission through effectively communicating its philosophy, values and goals to the media, the public, elected officials, and current and potential stakeholders.
  • Establishes operating procedures and directs the central office staff in the administration of all projects, activities, financial management, personnel matters, membership services, and public policy/advocacy activities.
  • Recruits, hires, and supports quality staff through clearly articulated goals, performance objectives, and objective evaluation procedures.
  • Manages the financial health of the organization in compliance with board-approved policies, including designing and proposing a balanced budget; establishing internal fiscal controls; overseeing financial transactions; tracking income, expense and cash-flow; and financial reporting and analysis.
  • Facilitates long- and short-term strategic planning goals & activities and formulates operational and development plans that help to ensure both the short-term effectiveness and long-term sustainability of the association.
  • Assures compliance with relevant federal, state and local codes and regulations.
  • Develops and maintains collaborative partnerships with other organizations toward efforts that support TASH’s mission.
  • Establishes an organizational culture and open communication with and among the Board, staff and membership conducive to achieving the organization’s mission.

Educational Requirements

Bachelors Degree required. Advanced degree(s) in the fields of disability, public or business administration, special education or other human services is not an absolute requirement, but is highly desirable. Additional years of experience providing, directing and/or supporting inclusive services for individuals with disabilities may be taken into account for applicants without advanced degrees.

Qualifications

  • Extensive experience & knowledge in providing, directing, administering and/or advocating for inclusive services for persons with severe disabilities and their families; strong background in issues related to early childhood, education, supported employed, supported living, and self-determination;
  • Strong background in progressive disability policy and supports and demonstrated commitment to TASH values as described in the organization’s resolutions;
  • At least five years of experience in administration, non-profit management and in managing and cultivating a professional team;
  • A demonstrated administrative record of maintaining a fiscally sound operation;
  • Proven success in fund development; • A strong track record of achieving tangible outcomes;
  • Demonstrated ability to build positive culture and bring diverse groups together toward the achievement of common goals;
  • Ability to function as the organization’s spokesperson in promoting TASH’s mission and goals;
  • An excellent writer and skilled communicator.

TASH is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.