Job Purpose
The Assistant Executive Director (AED) supports the Executive Director in the operational leadership, management, and implementation of JESPY House's mission and strategic objectives as established by the Board of Trustees. The AED provides leadership across departments, assists in ensuring operational excellence, supports fiscal management efforts, and strengthens internal capacity
The AED also plays a key leadership role in advancing organizational growth, long-term sustainability, strategic initiatives, and community impact. This position supports the agency’s continued development through fundraising collaboration, donor engagement, relationship management, marketing initiatives, and operational leadership that enhances organizational visibility and stakeholder engagement.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking a mission-driven, strategic, and highly collaborative leader who brings initiative, professionalism, and strong interpersonal skills to a dynamic nonprofit environment. The ideal candidate is proactive, adaptable, detail-oriented, and capable of balancing operational oversight with relationship-centered leadership.
This individual must demonstrate strong critical thinking, sound decision-making abilities, emotional intelligence, diplomacy, flexibility, and conflict mediation skills. The successful candidate will be solutions-oriented, capable of managing multiple priorities, and committed to fostering a culture of accountability, professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Serve as primary designee for the Executive Director, supporting overall organizational leadership and decision-making
- Support communication with the Board of Trustees by preparing reports, metrics, and analysis for Board and committee review
- Provide leadership and supervision to Directors and Management staff as assigned
- Contribute to strategic planning and lead implementation of assigned strategic priorities
- Represent the agency internally and externally when designated by the Executive Director
- Promote a positive organizational culture emphasizing professionalism, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
- Demonstrate initiative and independent judgment in managing operational and organizational priorities
- Foster strong internal and external relationships while promoting collaboration across departments
- Support organizational change initiatives, process improvement efforts, and long-term capacity-building strategies
- Assist in mediating workplace challenges and promoting effective conflict resolution practices
- Lead with a hands-on, solutions-oriented approach while maintaining attention to detail and organizational follow-through
Financial Reporting
- Assist the Executive Director in overseeing agency finances, including budget development and implementation.
- Oversee fiscal tracking and internal controls for assigned programs and departments
- Collaborate with finance staff, auditors, and external consultants during financial reviews and audits
- Support fundraising and resource development efforts in collaboration with the Director of Development, Marketing and Community Relations, and Executive Director, including grant development and implementation
- Support data-driven decision-making by monitoring operational and financial trends and identifying opportunities.
Outreach
- Support community relations and external engagement with government agencies, service providers, community, and municipal organizations
- Represent the agency at meetings, events, and professional forums as assigned
- Assist in developing and sustaining partnerships and collaborative initiatives aligned with organizational goals
- Support outreach efforts that strengthen agency visibility and stakeholder relationships
- Serve as a professional ambassador for the organization, demonstrating strong communication, relationship-building, and leadership presence
Organizational Environment
JESPY House is a mission-driven organization committed to innovation, collaboration, and person-centered services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Assistant Executive Director will join a leadership team focused on strategic growth, operational excellence, and strengthening organizational impact throughout the community.
The organization values professionalism, compassion, adaptability, and leaders who are committed to advancing both operational success and meaningful community engagement.
Other Responsibilities
- Provide operational leadership support to the Executive Director and leadership team
- Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and regulatory developments relevant to the agency’s mission
- Support organizational change initiatives, including process improvement and capacity building efforts
- Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of this position
Educational Qualifications and Experience
- Master’s degree in Organizational Management, Social Services, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
- Seven or more years of progressive nonprofit management or senior leadership experience
- Experience with New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) policies and comprehensive knowledge of state regulations governing the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) community is preferred
- Demonstrated experience supporting organizational budgeting and financial oversight
- Strong operational management and organizational planning skills
- Knowledge of nonprofit fundraising principles
- Experience supervising managers and multidisciplinary teams
- Experience supporting organizational change, growth, or systems improvement
- Demonstrated ability to lead with initiative and independent judgment
- Strong interpersonal, mediation, and relationship-building skills
- Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability within evolving organizational environments
- Strong attention to detail and ability to effectively manage competing priorities
Skills and Abilities
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build strong internal and external relationships
- Strong decision-making, problem-solving, and analytical skills
- Ability to manage complex operations and multiple priorities simultaneously
- Mediation and Conflict Resolution Skills
- Strong computer proficiency, including MS Word, Excel, and relevant organizational systems
- Ability to maintain professionalism, diplomacy, and composure in fast-paced or high-pressure environments
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to motivate, mentor, and support teams effectively
Note: The highlighted revisions were strategically added to strengthen the position posting and better attract candidates who demonstrate initiative, passion, emotional intelligence, leadership presence, adaptability, critical thinking, strong people skills, and operational excellence.
Special Working Conditions / Physical Requirements
- Must be available as required to meet organizational needs
- Valid driver’s license required
- Must meet New Jersey Division of Development Disabilities (DDD) and State regulatory requirements
- Requires availability on weekends, evenings, and travel as needed
Direct Reports
- Directors and/or Management Staff, as assigned
Salary
- Salary commensurate with experience
Why Join JESPY House
This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative and visionary leader to help share the future of a growing mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). The Assistant Executive Director will play a critical role in advancing organizational excellence, strengthening community impact, and supporting strategic growth initiatives across the agency.