SEARCH CLOSED -- Chief Program Officer -- Turning Point

Turning Point is a non-profit organization helping economically disadvantaged people in Brooklyn, New York. Turning Point’s mission is to change lives by providing comfort and help to hurting people: working with disconnected youth, families in crisis, the homeless, substance abusers, the unemployed, persons infected with and affected by HIV, adult non-readers, and non-English speaking immigrants.

Turning Point provides direct services to more than 6,000 people in Brooklyn each year, and reaches more than 20,000 people through education and outreach programs. Turning Point has been providing services since 1975 and has developed over time in response to the changing needs of its community. It now has an annual budget of $12 million and a staff of 125.

Reporting structure

The Chief Program Officer (CPO) will report to the President, who reports to Turning Point’s Board of Directors. Other direct reports to the President are various consultants including Turning Point’s outsourced finance function. The CPO has ultimate responsibility for all of TP's 125 staff.

Position Summary

In close partnership with the President, the CPO will lead Turning Point into a new phase of programmatic excellence and financial sustainability. The CPO has primary responsibility for the development and implementation of programs, as well as the leadership of the staff. Working with its multiple stakeholders, s/he ensures that Turning Point’s programs and initiatives are in line with its mission and are responsive to the needs of its clients.

Essential Functions/ Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

Lead and manage the programmatic operation of the organization and ensure that the expectations of funders, partners, constituents, clients, and community stakeholders are met
Communicate a compelling vision based on an agreed-upon mission
Develop a team-based environment for staff, providing for development, collaboration and well informed decision-making; ensure that staff have a secure environment in which to thrive
Provide expertise and advice to staff in order to facilitate collaboration and partnerships with government officials and their associates as well as with community based organizations
Strengthen and maintain the management and governance culture and practices of the organization

Program Development

Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of Turning Point’s programs
Bring a creative problem-solving approach to program management while ensuring that the necessary planning is undertaken to ensure smooth programmatic operations
Establish program goals and develop a system for tracking results against these goals
Ensure that programs and services contribute to and reflect the organization’s mission and priorities, and comply with the requirements of funding agencies

Strategic Planning

In partnership with the President, develop a strategic planning process in support of the organization’s mission, develop and oversee implementation of short and long-term goals, and monitor progress against these goals
Monitor emerging community needs, industry trends and changes in legislation, recommending appropriate changes in strategy to ensure that Turning Point’s strategic advantage and ability to serve the community are maintained

Fundraising and Development

Develop and formulate public and private sector fundraising plans to ensure funding for existing programs
Develop and maintain relationships with funders
Oversee the fulfillment of contract requirements and contract reporting

Financial Management

Work closely with the President to ensure the financial viability and sustainability of the organization
Develop annual program budgets
Ensure that programs are financially viable and that the Board-approved budget is implemented

Advocacy

Ensure the continued leadership of Turning Point in advocacy efforts with local, state and federal government
Actively and prominently advocate on behalf of the community in appropriate forums where key policy issues are planned, debated and discussed

Public Relations

Oversee the development of a consistent presentation of the organization and its mission and services

Board of Directors

Develop a positive and effective working relationship with members of the Board of Directors and Board Committees

Desired Qualifications and Experience

Substantial experience in a leadership position in government or a social services nonprofit organization
Significant program development experience; familiarity with program evaluation; a record of achievement as an innovator; hands-on program experience, ideally in medical services, mental health and/or housing
Clinical background/training a plus
Substantial experience in fundraising, both public and private; knowledge of government, foundation and corporate grant-making processes
Experience in soliciting, negotiating, and managing NYC government contracts
The life experience and personality that will generate credibility with clients, staff and funders; able to engage positively with clients; familiar with the challenges faced by those served by Turning Point
Visionary; able to lead strategic planning efforts
Strong leadership, management and problem solving skills
A highly effective and skilled communicator; a good listener; actively seeks opinions of others in decision-making; consultative; able to inspire confidence and trust
Possessing the charisma and personality that motivates and inspires others
Working knowledge of, and the ability to oversee, financial systems and budget development and management; experienced in resolving cash flow and financing challenges
Someone who can balance a creative approach with the need to develop and follow a plan
Respectful of the faith-based roots of the organization; sensitive to the cultural mix of the community