Executive Director

Executive Director of Office of Public Guardian

The Office of Public Guardian Board of Directors invites candidates to apply for the opportunity to lead this well established and highly regarded organization at a dynamic time in its growth.  The Executive Director will join a team of experienced and dedicated professionals to advance OPG’s mission to protect the legal rights and civil liberties of all individuals it serves by exercising the highest ethical standards in decision making and advocacy. The successful candidate will be a motivated, energetic and inclusive leader with a track record of managing non-profit or other mission-based organizations. 

About the Office of Public Guardian

The Office of Public Guardian (OPG) is a private, non-profit organization with 45 years of experience providing guardianship and related fiduciary services on behalf of legally incapacitated adults in New Hampshire. The office is designated by the NH Supreme Court as an approved public guardianship agency and provides guardianship to some of the state’s most vulnerable citizens, including those with intellectual disabilities, mental illness, acquired brain disorders and adults who receive protective services from the state.  OPG has an experienced, highly qualified staff of 50+ who collectively have expertise in law, social work, mental health, financial management, and Medicaid and other entitlement programs. Members of the professional staff are active in the National Guardianship Association and hold national certifications through the Center for Guardianship Certification. 

Job Summary

The Executive Director acts as the Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for the overall management and direction of the organization in accordance with its vision and mission.  The Executive Director works under the general oversight of the Board of Directors and works closely with department directors to ensure smooth running and effective management of the organization.  The Executive Director assumes a leadership role in collaborating with key stakeholders throughout the state including: the probate courts, governmental entities, area agencies and mental health centers, Social Security, disability rights groups, hospitals and nursing homes. 

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements the organization’s policies, assuring adequate review by the Board of Directors.
• Oversees development of the operating budget and long range financial plan, in conjunction with the Director of Finance.
• Oversees negotiation and ensures performance of all contracts, in conjunction with the Director of Finance and General Counsel.
• Hires and supervises management level staff, supporting open discussion and communication across departments to ensure optimal client services and employee satisfaction.
• Develops and maintains cooperative working relationships with the NH Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Corrections, and the Judicial Branch.
• Encourages and promotes the utilization of the significant talents and experience of the OPG staff with the goal of meeting the mutual needs of the individual and the organization. Promotes team building and collaboration, along with a culture of trust, empathy and inclusion.
• Ensures OPG remains in compliance regarding policies and/or HR practices through consultation with counsel and HR professionals.
• Facilitates board meetings, staff meetings, management meetings, and full staff trainings

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor or Master’s Degree in a related field
• 10+ years leadership experience in legal services, human services, or related field with a preference for non-profit or governmental entity management experience
• Working knowledge of the principles and practice of guardianship
•  Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to develop and evaluate administrative and office policies and procedures
• Ability to facilitate budget development and interpret financial reports
• Ability to devise solutions to administrative and programmatic challenges
• Experience with strategic and long-term planning
• Willingness to become certified through the Center for Guardianship Certification

Full time position, based at OPG’s office in Concord, with occasional travel throughout the state.

The Board of Directors is prepared to offer a competitive salary and benefits package to the highly qualified candidate.