Executive Director

Job Description

Job Description

Administrative Information

Job Title: Executive Director – First Step Shelter

Reports to: Board of Directors of First Step Shelter

Exempt position

Website:

Date of Job Analysis

April 24, 2026

Expiration Date

December 24, 2028

Job Summary

The Executive Director (ED) of First Step Shelter serves under the direction of the First Step Shelter Board. The ED carries out the mission of First Step Shelter as defined by the Board of Directors. The ED has overall operational and financial responsibility for the organization’s staff, programs, facilities, community outreach, and execution of the First Step Shelter mission. The ED must have the Emotional Intelligence, Intellect, and Integrity to relate to and influence clients, employees, elected officials, public sector employees, the business community, faith-based leaders, non-profit leaders, and the media for the purpose of meeting and advancing all First Step Shelter goals and objectives. The unique structure and governance of First Step Shelter require the ED to lead, manage, communicate, and strategize as a political figure.

UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE POSITION : First Step Shelter (FSS) board must comply with Sunshine Laws due to its unique connection to the City of Daytona Beach. The ED and the organization are scrutinized by the public in a manner similar to a government entity rather than as a non-profit. In addition to the City of Daytona Beach, other local governments and Volusia County contribute to the organization, and some hold seats on the Board of Directors. FSS is considered to be of public interest, and therefore, a journalist is often in attendance at Board meetings. The meetings are publicly posted and always have members of the public in attendance. The ED must be able to present in Board meetings and respond effectively and appropriately while under public scrutiny. Board members are not allowed to discuss FSS business outside of these public meetings. The ED must be able to overcome this challenge while ensuring the needs of the organization are met. The ED is also the custodian of records and must comply with the public records law.

* Your application and written submittals are subject to public disclosure under Florida law. Assurances of confidentiality in the recruitment process cannot be provided.

Essential Functions

The following duties are normal for this position and are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Explores and implements innovative funding opportunities, including writing or supervising the writing of grant proposals, assuring grant administration, and directing and engaging in fundraising initiatives. The ED is also responsible for all large-scale and small events.

Oversees all programs and facilities, including emergency, supportive, and transitional services for clients.

Hires or oversees hiring of all staff. In addition, the ED is responsible for all HR activities.

The ED is responsible for the accuracy and production of all financial reporting and is responsible for the adherence to all policies and procedures in the accounting manual.

Develops the agenda for FSS Board meetings. Presents items in need of action or input by the Board and keeps the Board informed of all pertinent information regarding the shelter.

Accounts for all fiscal, professional, and volunteer services and ensures accurate reporting procedures for all projects and programs.

Develops and implements company policies in conjunction with the Board and administrative staff. Maintains a complete and accurate collection of all policies approved by the Board as well as all administrative and programmatic procedures. Assures FSS is functioning in compliance with all policy.

Represents FSS to the public and on community coalitions and councils. Presents seminars, speeches, and offers interviews to the media on the issue of homelessness. Coordinates with city, state, and national efforts in the field. Informs the public about the real causes and complications of homelessness. Creates and implements marketing strategies.

Oversees the organization and utilization of volunteers.

Signs contracts as authorized by the Board and ensures compliance with all contracts. Maintains all

records in compliance with Board-approved budgets and policies.

Confers with legal authority to ensure that transactions and terminations of contracts and agreements, and all shelter policies are implemented in accordance with court orders, laws, and regulations, and are in the best interest of the shelter.

Performs other related duties as required.

Job Specifications

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Social Work, or related field required. Master’s Degree preferred. (Copies of Degrees and Transcripts Required)

Experience

Minimum of 7 years’ experience in a management/supervisory capacity with at least 5 of those years in a social services/nonprofit setting.

Experience in social service program development and implementation (homeless services preferred)

Experience in Fundraising and required proof of past fundraising success

Skills Required

Proficient in public speaking, public relations, and marketing.

Financial, management, and leadership skills

Proficient in Microsoft Word and Outlook, and competent with PowerPoint and Excel

Strong interpersonal skills

Strong attention to detail

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong analytical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills

Inquisitive, eager to learn, a self-starter, and a quick learner

Strong ethical decision-making

Models the Trauma-Informed Care approach to staff and clients

Able to manage multiple tasks

Ability to complete work independently while functioning with others in a team setting

A valid Florida driver’s license and a clean driving record, as determined by the insurance carrier

MUST PASS A LEVEL II BACKGROUND CHECK

Physical Abilities

Ability to work long hours

Ability to manage stress and function well under pressure