Waukegan, IL
PADS Lake County (PADS) helps individuals and families reach their full potential by providing a comprehensive approach to reducing homelessness. Through holistic services, the organization seeks to help the community create sturdy foundations in stable homes so that they can build brighter futures for themselves and contribute to their community.
Today, as the only emergency shelter system in Lake County, PADS operates 15 emergency shelter sites, its Day Resource Center with numerous programs within it, as well as a number of scattered site long-term supportive housing units. PADS also provides a multiplicity of services with a vision and mission of placing all of Lake County’s homeless on a secure path to sustained independence.
PADS Lake County has approximately 35 employees, a $3.7 million annual budget, is governed by a dedicated 10-member Board of Directors and welcomes many volunteers from the broader community.
The Executive Director of PADS will significantly shape the long-term future of this trusted organization in partnership with a dedicated staff and an engaged Board of Directors. Building upon the agency’s strong brand presence and financial stability, the Executive Director will be tasked with creating a new vision and strategy for the agency’s programs and services, ushering in its next chapter of excellence in the provision of homelessness services with vigor.
PADS’ next Executive Director will be a tenacious advocate and strategic creative who will have the opportunity to execute on building innovative and collaborative partnerships in the for-profit, nonprofit and public sectors to solve homelessness. As the Executive Director, there will be significant focus on top strategic priorities; stewarding resources to implement the vision, mission and strategy of PADS. Those priorities are:
1. Fundraising
2. Staff Development & Retention
3. Board Expansion, Diversification and Development
4. Securing the real estate and launch of a Fixed Site Shelter
PADS has faced the challenges of NIMBY-ism (Not in My Backyard) around securing a fixed site for their shelter. The realization of a Fixed Site Shelter is a crucial undertaking for PADS, and the incoming Executive Director will have an exceptional opportunity to lead its design, development and implementation. This initiative represents a groundbreaking effort for Lake County, and the success of the project will be pivotal in shaping PADS Lake County's future trajectory. The Executive Director's leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that the Fixed Site Shelter becomes a reality. This will present an opportunity to continue to deepen relationships with local government officials, state representatives, donors, the business community and other partner organizations to move this critical initiative to completion.
The Executive Director will appreciate and acknowledge the work of PADS’ dedicated staff, while advancing their skills and professional excellence. The candidate must be a strategic thinker and problem-solver, be able to delegate authority and responsibility, and have a healthy and intentional reliance on staff, volunteers and Board members.
A demonstrated awareness of DEI principles (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) and experience in implementing programming and training relative to DEI is essential. Other core skills will be evident in seeking diverse views and perspectives, building consensus and acting with integrity and decisiveness. Humility and an attitude of servant leadership will be effective traits in harnessing the efforts of others and in furthering the legacy of PADS.
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required, though a master’s or advanced degree is preferred. Evidence of continuing education, certification and executive level training is desirable.
The salary range for this position is between $130,000 and $150,000 and will be commensurate with experience. PADS Lake County offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to 12 paid holidays, vacation days, medical, dental and vision insurance, a flexible spending account, a health savings account, term life and personal accident insurance and a 401k.
TO APPLY
Applications and nominations are being received by Kittleman & Associates, LLC. To apply, please send a current resume and letter of interest to Megan Lewis. (Click on the Apply button at the bottom of this page).
For more information on PADS Lake County, please visit
https://www.padslakecounty.org