The American Council of the Blind, a national membership organization, is seeking an executive director.
The executive director directs and oversees the daily operations of the American Council of the Blind in accordance with the policies, procedures and priorities established by the national board of directors. He/she has traditionally been based in and supervises the organization's national office in Washington, D.C., as well as provides leadership in efforts to monitor national policy and legislation and other activities that impact the work of ACB on the national level. The executive director reports to the board of directors through the ACB president.
The executive director has the authority to hire, supervise, evaluate and dismiss staff operating in the ACB national office. He/she will coordinate all fiscal management activities with ACB's Chief Financial Officer in Minneapolis; develop and supervise the annual ACB operating budget within written policy parameters of the budget committee; oversee special documentation, such as reports, memoranda, resolutions, and proposals, necessary for the implementation of policies established by the board of directors, or in fulfillment of other organizational obligations; direct efforts to secure grants, bequests, gifts, memorial contributions and other such gifts; represent ACB before national legislative, regulatory, or other bodies affecting national policy toward blind and visually impaired people; serve as primary contact with affiliated organizations serving blind and visually impaired constituencies; and undertake special projects at the direction of the ACB president.
Preferred skills and experience include: excellent written and verbal communications skills; strong analytical abilities, particularly in relation to national policy issues affecting blind and visually impaired individuals; sound organizational and administrative skills, including day-to-day supervision of a diverse complement of staff; and familiarity with contemporary data processing systems. Ability to utilize the Internet and familiarity with access technology are preferred. Candidates must also possess strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to address effectively specific issues and concerns with policy implications proposed by ACB constituents, and at least six years of supervisory experience. Experience with a national non-profit organization is preferred. Salary range begins at $70,000.
Candidates should submit a resume, a cover letter, and a writing sample no later than January 15, 2004 to the Executive Director Search Committee, c/o American Council of the Blind, 1155 15th St. NW, Suite 1004, Washington, D.C. 20005. Applications may be accepted after that date if the position has not yet been filled.