Executive Director

Scion Executive Search has been retained to partner with DirectEmployers Association, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, to find an innovative leader who will drive organizational innovation. Founded in 2001, DirectEmployers has transformed from a strategic initiative to reduce recruiting costs into a robust nonprofit consortium serving nearly 1,100 employers, primarily within the federal contractor community, across diverse industries. Based in Indianapolis with a hybrid work environment, this full-time position offers an exciting opportunity to lead an exceptional team and continue to evolve and transform the future of talent acquisition.

ABOUT DIRECTEMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION:

At the heart of DirectEmployers' mission is a commitment to technological advancement and strategic HR/talent acquisition solutions that support compliance functions. The Association develops advanced technologies that enhance compliance and recruitment strategies, which include the Partner Relationship Manager (PRM) and Local Job Distribution platforms, and job delivery tools such VetCentral and VocRehab . These tools help organizations optimize their hiring processes, improve talent acquisition efficiency, and adapt to the evolving recruitment compliance landscape, including compliance with VEVRAA mandatory job listing and Section 503 outreach requirements.

Beyond technology, DirectEmployers provides a comprehensive ecosystem of resources for employers. Through in-person and virtual networking opportunities, educational programs, and collaborative initiatives, the Association empowers its Members to expand their talent acquisition strategies. Committed to driving efficiency and innovation, DirectEmployers continues to evolve, consistently delivering the sophisticated tools and insights that modern organizations need to attract, engage, and retain exceptional talent in an increasingly dynamic job market.

OVERVIEW:

As the Executive Director (equivalent to a Chief Executive Officer) of DirectEmployers Association, you'll be the strategic catalyst driving innovation at the intersection of HR technology and hiring process compliance. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, you'll orchestrate the continued growth of an organization that has transformed talent acquisition year-over-year. This is a rare opportunity to lead a mission-driven nonprofit that stands at the forefront of workforce innovation. You'll spearhead new business opportunities and ensure DirectEmployers Association remains a pioneering force in an ever-evolving industry. Your vision will shape how top companies connect with exceptional talent, leveraging cutting-edge technology and compliance expertise.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Partner with the Board of Directors and Member companies to establish a strategic vision that aligns with Member needs while anticipating and proactively planning shifts in recruitment and compliance.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic plan that drives growth in recruitment compliance strategy, ensuring revenue targets are met and exceeded sustainably.
• Oversee all facets of the Association, including promotion, product development, and Member engagement, to strengthen its impact and reach.
• Lead with integrity, fostering a collaborative and transparent team environment.
• Supervise and mentor staff while cultivating key relationships with organizations and partners in recruitment compliance to enhance member satisfaction and retention.
• Act as a liaison between Association leadership, Members, and local, state, and federal agencies to support the efficient administration of the National Labor Exchange.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities to continually reinforce DirectEmployers’ position as an industry leader.
• Oversee financial and budgetary operations to ensure the Association’s long-term fiscal health and sustainability.
• Direct human resources strategies, including the recruitment and retention of senior staff, organizational structure, and departmental leadership. Implement a succession plan to ensure long-term stability and continuity within the Association.
• Collaborate effectively with federal, state, and local government agencies to support the organization’s initiatives and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven executive leader with 10 years of success overseeing complex organizations (nonprofit or for-profit) with 60 staff members and a $10M budget, demonstrating expertise in recruitment leadership, stakeholder engagement, and building strong relationships with executives, partners, and volunteers.
• 10 years of experience in human resources/talent acquisition, with knowledge in employment laws and government compliance at the federal, state, and local levels, including EEOC regulations and legislation such as EEO-1, VEVRAA, and Section 503.
• Demonstrated experience leading organizations through transitions while ensuring stability and driving strategic growth, with the ability to define the organization’s future direction and develop a roadmap for long-term success.
• Experience collaborating with and reporting to a Board of Directors, fostering trust, building consensus, and securing support for organizational initiatives.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% of the time, including out-of-state and evening commitments to foster relationships, engage high-value members, stay informed on industry best practices, and represent the organization at key events and conferences.
• Established knowledge in budget management, encompassing preparation, analysis, strategic decision-making, and comprehensive financial reporting.
• Expertise in leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and drive organizational success.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Teams, with experience using collaborative tools such as Slack, Google Drive, Zoom, and JIRA.
• Experience in establishing and executing a strategic plan across various functional areas in a dynamic and complex environment.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field required.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

This full-time, hybrid opportunity offers an exciting chance to lead DirectEmployers Association, as its next Executive Director! In addition to a highly competitive base salary of $275,000 to $350,000 plus performance bonus and an executive retirement contribution, you’ll enjoy excellent benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, short- and long-term disability, an employee assistance program, paid time off, 12 paid holidays, and a 401(k) plan with up to 4% employer contribution match. This is an opportunity, position, and mission that will inspire you daily!

APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS:

DirectEmployers Association has retained the services of Scion Executive Search, a national executive search firm specializing in mission-driven organization recruitment, to assist in conducting this important search. For immediate consideration, please apply with your resume and cover letter, formatted in Microsoft Word, via https://scionstaffing.com/job/12607.

Please address applications to:

Elizabeth Crimmins, Executive Search Principal

Scion Executive Search

(888) 487-8850 ext. 113

Review of applications, nominations, and expressions of interest will begin immediately and continue on a confidential basis until an appointment is made.

ABOUT OUR FIRM:

Scion Executive Search is an award-winning retained executive search firm. Our track record and recruitment process have made us one of the top recruitment firms in the United States. Through innovative team building and recruitment solutions, Scion Executive Search seamlessly bridges the gap in interim and executive searches.

We are proud to be part of the Forbes lists of the Best Recruitment Firms and the Best Executive Search Firms in America. Additionally, Scion has been recognized as a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing firm as well as a top recruitment firm by The Business Times. Additional information about our firm and our practices can be found online.

Scion Executive Search is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, or any other protected class. We are committed to the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment and are dedicated to making employment decisions based on merit and value, for ourselves, our client companies, and the candidates we represent.

For opportunities located in a region that has enacted fair chance, arrest, or conviction-based employment ordinances, Scion Executive Search proactively follows the enacted guidance and considers for employment all qualified applications with arrest and conviction records. We engage in socially conscious business practices and believe that diverse, equitable, inclusive, and non-biased talent and recruitment processes are foundational to the success of Scion as well as every client organization with whom we partner.