Executive Director

Organizational Background

Over the last 65 years, The Arc of Colorado has grown from a small movement focused on access to services for children and adults to a statewide network of 15 chapters directed by 3,500 members. Our mission is to provide leadership opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to achieve their goals by influencing public policy, promoting integration through public awareness and community engagement, and showcasing best practices of the chapter network. We accomplish this mission by amplifying the voice of individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families, focusing our legislative and policy efforts on high impact efforts, leveraging the power of our Arc chapters, and working in collaboration with national, state, and local organizations sharing the same values.  The Arc of Colorado is a membership organization governed by a voluntary board of directors. Members are parents, family members, persons with disabilities, professionals, and interested citizens.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director manages and directs the day to day activities of the organization.  Representing the agency in all dealings with other organizations, individuals, and the general public, the Executive Director acts as the lead liaison to all Arc of Colorado affiliates, as well as all federal, state, and regional agencies influence supports and services for persons with diverse disabilities. As the organization’s chief advocate, the Executive Director is ultimately responsible for implementing The Arc of Colorado Strategic Plan and Policy Agenda.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership, Advocacy, and Public Policy

• Implement The Arc of Colorado legislative agenda and improve the state’s policy environment for organizations that serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 
• Lead the implementation of The Arc of Colorado Strategic Plan.
• Advocate for people with diverse disabilities, their families, local Arc chapters, public policies and high quality supports for people with diverse disabilities to be fully included in all aspects of their community.
• Develop and nurture a strong self-advocates program.
• Provide local chapters with information, guidance and direction on legislative and other policy matters
• Provide oversight and direction to the Governmental Affairs Consultant and communicate activities and progress to the board.
• Develop bi-partisan working relationships with legislators other elected officials.
• Work effectively with the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing and other state executive branches.

Board Relations and Communications

• Assist the board by maintaining and promoting the vision and mission of the organization and in achieving goals and objectives of the Strategic Framework.
• Initiate and assist in recommending developing policies, procedures and plans.
• Involve each board member at an optimum level and stimulate each to reach highest potential as a board member.

Arc Chapter Relations

• Strengthen training, technical assistance and support to existing chapters.
• Develop relationships with local board members and Arc chapter Executive Directors.
• Maintain a strong working relationship with arc Thrift Stores.

Financial Management

• Sustain and expand the financial strength of the organization through revenue-generating activities.
• Provide leadership in developing organizational and financial plans and budgets to effectively operate and meet the goals and objections approved by the board of directors.
• Maintain fiscal responsibility for the annual budget, provide timely monthly financials statements to the executive committee and work with the CPA to produce annual audit
• . Build relationships with philanthropic leaders in Colorado in order to build philanthropic support for I/DD programs.

Public Relations and Communications

• Work with the Board to implement effective branding, messaging, external communications, and press and media releases.
• Work with staff to maintain the website with current information for self-advocates, families, affiliates and volunteers.

Professional Qualifications and Personal Attributes 

• Experience with advocacy, public policy, and the legislative process.
• Experience in the sector of intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or a passion for supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey the organization’s mission and strategic future to the board, chapter affiliates, legislators, family members and other stakeholders. 
• Strong written and public speaking skills.
• Previous success in building partnerships/coalitions with other nonprofit organizations.
• Solid organizational abilities, including planning, delegating, program management.
• Strong financial management skills, including budget preparation, analysis, and reporting.
• Experience in financial resource development and/or fundraising.
• Five or more years of nonprofit executive leadership experience.
• An approachable and patient personality.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field of study.
• Master’s Degree or higher degree preferred. Advocacy or public policy experience preferred.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $140,000. The organization offers a competitive benefits package, including participation in an employer-sponsored health insurance plan, employer-paid life insurance, a retirement plan with employer matching donations, dental insurance, a generous Paid Time Off package, employer paid cell phone, employer paid parking, and other benefits.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

The Arc of Colorado is an Equal Opportunity Institution and EEO/Affirmative Action Employer committed to excellence through diversity. Employment offers are made on the basis of qualifications and without regard to race, sex, national or ethnic origin, disability, or age.

Application Process

The search for the Executive Director of the Arc of Colorado is being conducted by The Moran Company. Questions about the position can be directed to Mike English, The Moran Company; mike (at) morancompany.com.

To apply for this position, submit cover letter and resume to Mike English. The Moran Company, via the secure online portal. Resume should include all professional education and experience, dates of employment (month and year) and position/title and organization names. Cover letter should articulate relevant experience and fit with the stated preferences of the position.