Please distribute to those you think would be interested in the below
opportunity.
For 30 years, Blindness: Learning In New Dimensions (BLIND, Inc.) has
provided small group instruction in the alternative techniques of blindness.
Our programs are based on a positive attitude toward blindness and a belief
in the normality and competency of blind people. We know that with proper
training and opportunity, blind people can live full, happy, and successful
lives. We work hard to create an environment that promotes active learning
and collegiality where adult students can empower themselves and pursue
their dreams. We are one of three training centers rooted in the philosophy
of the National Federation of the Blind and are located just blocks south of
downtown Minneapolis.
The Executive Director is hired by and reports to a seven-member board of
directors. The Executive Director will manage an annual budget in excess of
$2 million and currently 11 full-time, 2 part-time employees, and some
volunteers. They will be responsible for a wide range of functions,
including strategic and operational management, policy planning and
development, board relations, staffing, community outreach and public
education, maintaining relations with state rehabilitation agencies,
budgeting and fiscal management, and funding development and donor
relations. This is a critical position in an essential organization. The
successful applicant will have a strong commitment to the independence and
self-determination of blind people. They will embody passion, idealism,
integrity, and a positive attitude, and be mission-driven and self-directed.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
Program administration and development:
1. Supervise recruitment of students from Minnesota, other states, and
internationally.
2. Serve as primary liaison with rehabilitation counselors and other
referral sources.
3. Develop and enforce organizational policies.
4. Cultivate a strong transparent working relationship with the Board
of Directors.
5. Supervise center maintenance and renovation, seeking bids and
approving contracts.
6. Supervise residential component of program.
7. Manage student review, staffing, and progress report processes.
8. With Board and staff, develop and implement strategic and
operational plans.
9. Negotiate, approve, and implement contracts with state agencies.
10. Maintain working knowledge of laws and regulations governing
nonprofits.
11. Promote the National Federation of the Blind's philosophy of
blindness and encourage active participation by students and staff.
12. Prepare BLIND, Inc. annual report with staff assistance.
13. Supervise program development, including course curricula.
14. Maintain student confidentiality within the law.
Communications:
1. Publicize the programs, activities, and goals of BLIND Inc. through
applicable media.
2. Represent the programs and point of view of BLIND, Inc. to state
agencies, organizations, government bodies, and the general public.
3. Keep the board fully informed on the condition of the organization
and all important factors influencing it.
4. Build and maintain relationships with members of the NFB and other
blind people throughout the country.
5. Build and maintain relationships with BLIND, Inc. alumni, their
families, and friends.
Human Resources:
1. Recruit, hire, train, supervise, reward, and discipline staff based
on performance.
2. Develop an effective tone and spirit of teamwork among staff and
students.
3. Develop and implement sound human resource practices.
4. Develop an effective management team, with delegation of
responsibilities, effective feedback systems, and succession planning.
5. Develop and maintain an effective staff training and development
system which attracts, keeps, and motivates a diverse complement of quality
people.
6. Create and promote a positive work environment with open
communications.
7. Maintain staff confidentiality within the law.
Budget and Finance:
1. Develop and manage an annual budget that meets the needs of the
organization.
2. Develop and maintain sound fiscal practices, ensuring fiscal
controls are in place.
3. Set financial priorities accurately to ensure the organization is
operating in a manner that supports the needs of the program and staff.
4. Submit documents to auditor and supervise the audit process.
5. Supervise grant writing, fundraising, and other revenue generating
processes.
6. Supervise monthly invoices to state agencies and other referral
sources.
7. Supervise all purchasing of goods and services.
Minimum Qualifications:
1. Possession of a four-year college degree or equivalent experience in
providing vocational rehabilitation services.
2. Management, supervisory, or leadership experience.
3. Seven years of professional experience in any field.
4. Ability to work effectively in collaboration with diverse groups of
people.
5. Excellence in organizational management skills with the ability to
coach staff, develop and manage a high-performing team, and set and achieve
strategic objectives.
6. Outstanding oral and written presentation and communication skills,
with the ability to be an outgoing spokesperson, relationship builder, and
fundraiser.
7. Budgeting and fiscal management experience.
8. Willing to travel to NFB national and state conventions and other
venues representing BLIND, Inc.
Preferred Qualifications:
9. Experience working with blind people and ability to be an effective
role model for them.
10. Leadership experience in the National Federation of the Blind.
11. Demonstrated proficiency in the use of nonvisual techniques.
Position Benefits:
1. Medical benefits
2. Employer-contributed retirement program
3. Greater Minneapolis monthly transit pass
4. Paid attendance (including transportation, lodging and stipend) at
National Federation of the Blind state and/or national conventions
5. Paid holiday leave totaling 19 days annually on average
6. Accrued additional paid leave based on hours worked
All employees of BLIND, Inc. are required to undergo staff training in order
to ensure that they are fully competent and understand the experiences of
students in training and build a solid foundation in the beliefs of blind
people. This training requires use of learning shades and travel with the
long white cane.
Interested applicants should submit a resume and a 1-page writing sample
describing what makes the candidate unique for this position to