Executive Director

Position Summary:

The Executive Director is the chief executive officer responsible for the overall leadership, management, and operation of the workshop. This includes ensuring compliance with Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regulations, maintaining financial health, fostering a positive workplace culture, and driving the mission to provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The Executive Director serves as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors, staff, community partners, and funding agencies.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement strategic plans to meet the organization’s mission and goals.
• Provide visionary leadership and direction to staff, ensuring high-quality service delivery.
• Report regularly to the Board of Directors, providing updates on operations, financial status, and strategic initiatives.

Operational & Program Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the workshop, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, including DESE and OSHA standards.
• Implement and monitor vocational training programs tailored to individuals with disabilities.
• Ensure the maintenance of facilities and equipment to support safe and effective operations.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Oversee financial reporting, audits, and compliance with fiscal policies.
• Identify and secure funding through grants, contracts, and fundraising initiatives.

Human Resources & Staff Development

• Recruit, hire, and supervise staff, ensuring proper training and professional development.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and productive work environment.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and DESE requirements for staff and employees.

Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, including ADA, FLSA, DOT and Section 14(c) certification for subminimum wages, if applicable.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to maintain high standards of service delivery.
• Conduct regular internal audits and ensure readiness for external inspections.

Community Engagement & Advocacy

• Act as the primary representative of the workshop to the community, stakeholders, and partner organizations.
• Advocate for the inclusion and employment of individuals with disabilities in the broader community.
• Build relationships with local businesses, government agencies, and other nonprofits to enhance opportunities for workshop participants.
• Collaborate and lobby for Sheltered Workshops and individuals with disabilities at the state and federal level.
• Create awareness of policy changes that might affect individuals with developmental disabilities.

Fundraising & Grant Management

• Identify, apply for, and manage grants from state, federal, and private sources.
• Develop and execute fundraising campaigns and events to support the organization’s mission.
• Cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, and community partners.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Social Work, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Experience:
• Minimum of 5 years in a leadership or executive role, preferably within a nonprofit, vocational rehabilitation, or social services setting.
• Proven track record of managing budgets, supervising staff, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Knowledge:
• Familiarity with Missouri DESE regulations, ADA, FLSA, DOT and OSHA standards.
• Understanding of vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities.
• Skills:
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Financial management, fundraising, and grant-writing expertise.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other management software.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Missouri sheltered workshops or similar organizations.
• Knowledge of Section 14(c) and subminimum wage regulations.
• Background in advocacy or community outreach for individuals with disabilities.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Occasionally required to lift or move up to 25 pounds.
• May involve occasional travel within Missouri for meetings, conferences, or training.

These skills and requirements are not an exhaustive list, additional duties may be assigned as need to ensure the efficient operation and management of Innovative Industries, Inc.

Salary & Benefits:

• Salary: Negotiated based on experience
• Benefits: Health insurance, retirement and paid time off will be negotiated based on experience

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person