Good Shepherd Gracenter: Executive Director

Good Shepherd Gracenter is seeking an Executive Director who will enhance the organization’s programmatic achievements and guide it into the next phase of growth. The Executive Director will oversee the organization’s strategic direction, financial management, HR functions, fundraising, public relations, program oversight, and board development, all while fostering a mission-driven culture and supervising key staff members. This critical leadership role reports to the Board of Directors and is vital for ensuring the long-term sustainability of Gracenter.

About Good Shepherd Gracenter:

Good Shepherd Gracenter is a small but mighty organization with a tremendous positive impact for Bay Area women in recovery. We served over 800 women since we were founded in 1989. Gracenter is part of the work of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, who have a 200-year-old global mission of serving women. With support from Gracenter, women are pursuing education, finding jobs, building financial stability and creating lasting connections with one another to support their recovery. Due to these key components, our residents have a high rate of success. Many have gone on to become successful in their personal lives, in their families and in their careers.

Responsibilities

• Fundraising and Resource Development (40%) – The E.D. will work in partnership with the Board, staff and the Good Shepherd Guild to maintain our current relationships and collaborations with our individual donors, local businesses, and charitable foundations, while developing new ways to increase our capacity and efficiency to meet the growing need for critical transitional services for women in recovery.

• Organizational Leadership and Management (25%) – Lead, coordinate, and motivate the team, including nurturing the professional development and collegiality of staff. Ensure financial health, as well as full compliance with nonprofit business, legal, and HR policies and procedures.

• Community Building & Marketing (25%) – Serve as the voice of Gracenter—amplifying the needs of those we serve, building new relationships, and inspiring people to get involved. You’ll partner with donors, foundations, community organizations, and advocates to sustain and grow our work.

• Board Partnership and Governance (10%) – Support the work of the Board to set direction, provide transparency, and uphold organizational health and compliance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive senior nonprofit leadership experience, including:

  • Direct supervision of professional staff

  • Budget oversight and organizational decision-making

  • Operational leadership, HR, and compliance management

  • Significant role in Board Partnership and Governance

  • Oversight of programs for vulnerable populations

• Proven success with individual and institutional fundraising

• Demonstrated team-building and leadership experience

• Experience building and maintaining community partnerships

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

• Strong communication skills, including public speaking, writing, and storytelling

• Knowledgeable, or demonstrated ability to quickly learn, about state and federal laws and regulations related to substance abuse programs

Desired Qualifications

• Executive Director experience

• LCSW certification

• Program management experience in the field of substance use treatment

• Possess, or working towards, drug and alcohol certification

• Familiarity with faith-supported organizations and programs

• Experience working with programs that serve women-only

• Knowledgeable about other nonprofit social service providers in the Bay Area, particularly in San Francisco

• Have a valid California driver’s license upon hire and have a vehicle

Compensation

This is a full-time, exempt, salaried position with a range of $125,000–$145,000, depending on experience. Good Shepherd Gracenter offers employer-subsidized health benefits including dental and vision, and a matching retirement contribution up to 5%.

The role requires regular in-person presence on-site at the center, ideally 5 days a week, with occasional evening or weekend events. Benefits also include 10 days of vacation annually, and 12 paid holidays, including personal days.

To Apply

To apply, please send a single PDF that includes your resume and cover letter to EDSearch@GSGracenter.org. In your letter, please describe how one of Gracenter’s core values (Individual Worth, Mercy, Reconciliation, or Zeal) has manifested in your work or life.