Director - Mary's House

Director - Mary's House

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago partners with mission-driven people and organizations across Cook and Lake counties to witness a message of mercy and hope to a world in need by improving lives and nourishing spirits; strengthening and empowering people, families, and communities; and committing to being present to our times through the eyes of faith.

Role Overview The Director - Mary's House will lead and oversee multiple community service programs by driving strategic initiatives, ensuring operational excellence and compliance, managing budgets and performance outcomes, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and developing high-performing teams through trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and evidence-based practices aligned with Catholic Charities' mission.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate program strategies and initiatives that align with the mission of Catholic Charities and meet the needs of the communities we serve. Oversee the day-to-day operations of multiple programs, ensuring compliance with organization policies, funding requirements, and best practices. Also responsible for effectively managing multiple budgets in accordance with goals and priorities of the respective programs.
• Monitor program performance through data analysis and outcomes assessment, using findings to inform program enhancements and strategic planning.
• Work with external vendors and stakeholders as needed. Monitor program quality and fidelity to trauma-informed and harm reduction models through data analysis, quality improvement initiatives, and regular evaluation.
• Foster collaboration among program staff, community partners, and stakeholders to promote integrated service delivery and maximize resources. Provide mentorship and support to program managers and staff, encouraging professional development and a culture of continuous improvement. Foster a culture of safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural responsiveness by embedding trauma-informed principles into policies, procedures, and service delivery.
• Lead and develop the team by setting clear goals and expectations, monitoring performance, and providing regular feedback and guidance. Inspire team excellence by modeling accountability, collaboration, and solution-oriented thinking, and ensure team members are supported, empowered, and high-performing while fostering a positive, purpose-driven culture. Lead the implementation of evidence-based harm reduction strategies that prioritize participant autonomy, dignity, health, and engagement while reducing barriers to accessing services.
• Develop staff capability through ongoing training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Cultivate a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and improvement to strengthen team engagement, retention, and impact. Develop and oversee staff training, coaching, and professional development related to trauma-informed care, harm reduction, de-escalation, motivational interviewing, and related best practices.

PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

• Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
• Lift, push, and pull up to 10 lbs

Other Requirements: Comply with program and/or requirements related to:

• Background check
• DMV Check
• FBI/State Fingerprints, DCFS CANTS; ACADEMIC COACHING ONLY: CPS fingerprints, State sex offender, national sex offender, IL state police murder and violent offender

Additional Requirements:

• Driver's License
• Automobile Insurance

Education and Experience Requirements: Minimum

• Bachelor's Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in a related field of study 3-5 years relevant experience
• Proven leadership skills with a track record of managing diverse teams and complex projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, with the ability to build relationships and engage stakeholders effectively.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Preferred

• Master's degree in a related field of study 5+ years relevant experience
• Strong knowledge of evidence-based trauma-informed practices, harm reduction principles, equity-centered leadership, and change management.