Community Support Services - Vice President of Programs

Job Description

Job Description

View and Download Full Position Profile

About the Organization

Founded in 1981, Community Support Services (CSS) is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families to live lives of independence, connection, and purpose. For more than four decades, CSS has served as a trusted community partner across western Cook and eastern DuPage Counties, helping individuals build meaningful relationships, develop life skills, access opportunities, and fully participate in community life. Today, the organization serves approximately 1,000 individuals and families annually across more than 50 communities throughout the region.

The Opportunity

Community Support Services (CSS) is seeking a Vice President of Programs to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the organization’s diverse portfolio of services supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the Vice President will oversee the majority of the organization’s direct service programs, including residential services, independent living supports, respite and family services, case management, community day programs, and employment services. With oversight of three program leaders and an overall team of approximately 60 employees across multiple service lines and locations, representing nearly 70% of the organization, this individual will play a critical role in ensuring that services remain person-centered, high quality, financially sustainable, and responsive to the evolving needs of the communities CSS serves.

Success in this role begins with building trust, developing relationships, and gaining a deep understanding of CSS’s programs, funding structures, and culture. The Vice President will serve as a mentor, coach, and thought partner to a team of experienced program leaders, helping strengthen communication, accountability, and consistency across service lines. This leader will be expected to make sound decisions, address challenges directly, and provide the level of support and supervision needed to help both programs and people thrive. Equally important, the Vice President will bring a continuous improvement mindset, evaluating existing operations, identifying opportunities for greater efficiency and impact, and helping position CSS for thoughtful, sustainable growth.

The Vice President of Programs will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team and a trusted partner to the President & CEO in shaping the future of the organization. Current priorities include strengthening community-based service contracts, enhancing program performance and enrollment, supporting organizational culture and staff engagement, and exploring opportunities for strategic program expansion. This role offers the opportunity to influence the future direction of a highly respected organization with a strong reputation, stable financial foundation, and a longstanding commitment to empowering individuals with I/DD to live lives of independence, dignity, and belonging.

Location, Compensation, and Benefits

This position is based in Brookfield, Illinois. Given the highly collaborative and people-centered nature of the role, the Vice President of Programs is expected to maintain a strong on-site presence, particularly during onboarding and relationship-building. A hybrid work arrangement may be available following a successful transition into the role and in alignment with organizational needs.

The salary range for this position is $100,000 to $120,000 , commensurate with experience. CSS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance; a 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; generous paid time off, holidays, and personal days; an Employee Assistance Program (EAP); and additional voluntary benefit offerings.