Chief Executive Officer - Pittsburgh Scholar House

Title: Chief Executive Officer of The Pittsburgh Scholar House

Reports To: Pittsburgh Scholar House Board of Directors

Position Overview: The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pittsburgh Scholar House is responsible for providing strategic leadership, direction, and management of the organization. The CEO will work closely with the Board of Directors, senior leadership team, staff, funders, and community partners to ensure the organization achieves its mission to support single-parent college students and their families by providing housing, financial support, and educational opportunities.

The CEO will oversee all operations, financial management, fundraising, program development, and strategic planning to ensure the sustainability and growth of Pittsburgh Scholar House. The CEO will also serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, representing it in public and private forums.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership and Vision:

• Provide leadership in the development and implementation of Pittsburgh Scholar House's mission, vision, and strategic goals.
• Ensure that the organization's programs and services align with its mission and are effectively meeting the needs of students and their families.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors in setting organizational priorities and ensuring they are achieved.

2. Financial Management:

• Oversee the preparation of the organization's annual budget, monitor financial performance, and ensure financial stability.
• Work closely with the accounting firm and finance team to manage cash flow, approve payments, and ensure the organization's financial health.
• Ensure that funding is available to support programs and operations, working with the team to secure grants, donations, and other revenue streams.

3. Fundraising and External Relations:

• Lead fundraising efforts by developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
• Cultivate relationships with existing and potential funders, donors, and partners to ensure ongoing financial support.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, representing Pittsburgh Scholar House to external stakeholders, including government agencies, the public, and the media.

4. Program Development and Management:

• Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs to ensure they meet the needs of single-parent students.
• Monitor program outcomes and make adjustments as necessary to improve effectiveness and ensure funding commitments are met.
• Foster innovation in the organization's program offerings to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.

5. Staff Leadership and Development:

• Lead, motivate, and manage a team of professionals, ensuring high performance and a collaborative, inclusive culture.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to senior staff and support their professional growth.
• Ensure that staff members are supported and receive necessary training and development opportunities.

6. Board Relations and Governance:

• Work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure effective governance, providing regular updates on organizational performance, financial status, and strategic initiatives.
• Facilitate board meetings, retreats, and strategic planning sessions to align the organization's work with its mission and goals.

7. Community Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key community stakeholders, including educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and businesses.
• Represent the organization at community events, conferences, and public meetings to raise awareness of Pittsburgh Scholar House's work.

8. Housing Development:

• Ability to work with housing developers, consultants, and housing agencies to ensure completion of PSH housing units, ensuring timely and quality delivery of housing projects.

9. Higher Education Sector Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with higher education institutions, including universities and community colleges, to ensure alignment of programs with the needs of students and promote academic success.

10. Human Services Agency Collaboration:

• Work with human services agencies across the continuum of care to ensure a holistic approach to supporting students, addressing their academic, personal, and family needs effectively.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Education:
  • A Master's Degree in a relevant field such as Nonprofit Management, Education, Business Administration, or Social Work is required. Candidates with equivalent experience will be considered.

• Experience:
  • At least 5-7 years of senior management experience, preferably in nonprofit organizations, higher education, or community development.
  • Experience managing and developing an engaged board of directors.
  • Proven track record of successful fundraising and securing financial support.
  • Demonstrated experience in managing large teams, developing staff, and fostering a positive organizational culture.
  • Previous experience in roles with high visibility and public speaking responsibilities a plus
  • Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and resource allocation.
  • Housing experience is preferred.
  • Higher education experience is a plus.

• Skills:
  • Exceptional leadership, written and oral communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Effective public speaking and media literacy skills.
  • Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable goals.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including board members, staff, donors, and community partners.
  • Expertise in program development and evaluation, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
  • Ability to manage competing priorities and navigate complex challenges in a dynamic environment.
  • Proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with nonprofit management software (e.g., Teams, SharePoint, JotForm).

• Personal Attributes:
  • A deep commitment to the mission of Pittsburgh Scholar House and a passion for supporting single-parent students.
  • Strong ethics and integrity, with a focus on transparency and accountability.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to a changing environment.
  • Empathy and cultural competence in working with diverse populations, particularly those from low-income or underrepresented communities.

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter.

Pittsburgh Scholar House is a standalone 501c3. PSH has an agreement with Point Park to process payroll and administer benefits for all Pittsburgh Scholar House staff. The CEO of the Pittsburgh Scholar House reports to the Pittsburgh Scholar House board of directors.