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The National Runaway Safeline (NRS) is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to ensuring that young people who are facing crisis, who have run away, or are experiencing homelessness are safe and off the streets. NRS provides critical crisis intervention, information and resources for youth and families 24 hours a day, 365 days a year via hotline, text, chat, email, and an online forum. NRS is based in Chicago and serves young people in crisis and their families across the U.S. and U.S. territories.
Position Summary:
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will be a visionary and dynamic leader responsible for the organization’s strategic, operational, and fiscal management. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO will drive the mission and vision of National Runaway Safeline, ensuring effective program delivery, sustainable growth, and the highest standards of service to young people in crisis.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Strategic Planning:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors and Executive leadership team.
- Provide inspirational leadership to staff, volunteers, Youth Advisory Board members, and stakeholders, fostering a culture of innovation, positivity, collaboration, and accountability.
- Ensure alignment of all activities with the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
Fundraising and Financial Management:
- Lead comprehensive fundraising efforts, including major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, and management of the donor cultivation cycle.
- Develop and manage the organization’s budget, proactively and transparently collaborating with the Executive leadership team and Board of Directors to ensure financial health across departments.
- Oversee strategy related to CRM maintenance and build out.
- Oversee financial reporting and ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
Program Management and Service Delivery:
- Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services to ensure they meet KPIs and the highest standards of quality and effectiveness.
- In partnership with the Executive leadership team, expand and enhance service delivery models to meet the evolving needs of young people in crisis across the nation.
- Maintain a strong focus on data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement.
- Ensure the youth voice is incorporated across program areas.
Advocacy and Public Relations:
- Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for the organization, building and maintaining strong relationships with youth leaders, media, policymakers, community partners, and other stakeholders.
- Advance the organization’s advocacy agenda to influence public policy and secure resources for the organization.
- Promote the organization’s brand to increase public awareness of its mission, services, and impact.
Board Relations and Governance:
- Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to ensure effective governance, fiduciary oversight, and strategic alignment.
- Provide routine and transparent updates on organizational performance, challenges, and opportunities.
- Support the recruitment, development, engagement, and retention of a diverse and effective Board.
Requirements…
Preferred Qualifications:
- Proven experience in a senior leadership role within a nonprofit or governmental organization, preferably in crisis services, youth services, or related field.
- Demonstrated success in strategic planning, program management, and ensuring quality service delivery.
- Strong record of accomplishment in fundraising, financial management, and organizational growth.
- Exceptional communication, advocacy, and public relations skills.
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Exhibited success with change management and strengthening culture.
- Commitment to the flexibility and adaptability required for the evolving needs of a dynamic team;
- Passion for and commitment to the mission of supporting youth in crisis.
- Dedication to elevating youth voice.
Education:
- A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree in nonprofit management, social work, public administration, or a related field is preferred.
- Individuals with lived expertise of homelessness or housing instability are encouraged to apply
Application Process:
- Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to: