Executive Director

Executive Director

The Executive Director, under the guidance of the Board of Directors, provides visionary and operational leadership for Sunflower Hill.

Sunflower Hill is a vibrant nonprofit organization dedicated to creating places and spaces where individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) can live, work, learn and thrive. Founded in 2013 to address the urgent need for long-term, affordable housing as well as community-based programs and opportunities for adults with I/DD, Sunflower Hill has developed a strong reputation as both a community convener and regional catalyst. Our first innovative flagship community, Sunflower Hill at Irby Ranch in Pleasanton, opened in 2020- providing 30 affordable housing units at 30-60 percent Area Median Income (AMI) in an independent and supportive services environment akin to senior living. Based on the success of Irby Ranch, three new residential communities in Dublin and Lafayette, California are also in early development. Beyond housing, Sunflower Hill delivers enrichment programs and community-based activities that foster life skills, social connection, and personal growth. Our one-acre organic garden at Hagemann Ranch in Livermore serves as a communal gathering location for adult day programs and high school I/DD transition classes. Staff, program participants and community volunteers work collaboratively to harvest and donate approximately 5000 pounds of fresh produce, eggs and flowers on an annual basis. Our strong staff and dedicated board of directors believe housing is foundational and belonging can be transformative. We envision a world where people of all abilities are welcomed, empowered and valued and these fundamental principles guide our organization.

The Executive Director will cultivate strong relationships with families, community partners, funders, service providers, and local stakeholders while ensuring organizational sustainability and impact.

Organizational Management & Leadership

• Serve as the Chief Executive of Sunflower Hill, advancing its mission, vision, and values.
• Lead the implementation of the organization's strategic plan, annual operating and revenue goals
• Oversee day-to-day management and operations, including staff, consultants, participant programs,
• Working with the board, support the development and expansion of affordable residential communities for adults with I/DD.
• Ensure residential, community programs and garden activities promote independence, interdependence, inclusion, and quality of life.
• Working with the board, recruit, manage, and retain consultants, vendors, and professional advisors as needed to support organizational operations.

Fiscal Management

• Develop and manage the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Board.
• Ensure strong financial controls, transparency, and compliance with nonprofit regulations.
• Oversee financial reporting, audits, tax filings, and Form 990 preparation.
• Monitor financial performance and provide regular financial updates to the Board.
• Lead fundraising efforts including grants, donations, sponsorships, and partnerships while overseeing full grant administration, including proposal development, reporting, compliance, and funder relationship management.

Board Operations, Governance, and Development

• Partner closely with the Board of Directors to strengthen governance, leadership, and strategic oversight.
• Participate in Board-driven strategic planning, goal-setting, and evaluation of organizational impact.
• Prepare meeting agendas, reports, and materials for Board and committee meetings.
• Serve as an ex-officio member of Board committees.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and transparent communication between staff and the Board.

Programs, Housing Administration

• Leadership and oversight at Sunflower Hill's residential communities, community and garden programs serving adults with I/DD. Serve as a senior level liaison to SFH partners and vendors.
• Understand and articulate the evolving needs of adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families.
• Ensure program outcomes are measured, documented, and aligned with the organization's mission.
• Support innovation and continuous improvement in housing and program offerings.

Community Relations & Outreach

• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, community partners, service providers, funders, and local agencies.
• In conjunction with the board and staff, represent Sunflower Hill at community events, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.
• Serve as a visible advocate for supportive housing, disability services, and community programs
• Oversee marketing, communications, and outreach efforts, including website content and storytelling.
• Communicate the impact of Sunflower Hill's housing and programs to donors, partners, and the broader community.

Qualifications and Attributes

• Bachelor's Degree required. Master's Degree preferred.
• Five years senior-level leadership experience required. Previous management of non-profit teams required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong organizational abilities; self-starter with initiative to work independently and with minimum supervision.
• Must have the visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency situation; ability to adequately observe participant activities, enforce safety regulations, and apply appropriate policies and procedures; the physical ability to lead and interact in group activities and perform related physical skills.
• Proven supervisory skills in training, evaluating, and motivating staff and volunteers, as well as developing and managing an effective staff team.
• Professional demeanor and the ability to work well with the public, staff and volunteers.
• Passion for serving neurodiverse individuals.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit governance, financial management, fundraising (including major and legacy gifts), grants and strategic planning.
• Experience working with Boards of Directors and community stakeholders.
• Passion for advancing inclusion, equity, and opportunities for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
• Ability to lead with empathy, vision, and accountability.

Salary: $140,000 - $165,000 per year