Executive Director

The Executive Director (ED) is the key management leader of the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica (LFJ), a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by lupus through advocacy, education, and support.

Job Title: Executive Director
Organization: Lupus Foundation of Jamaica (LFJ)
Location: Unit 29, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10
Employment Type: Full-Time

Job Summary:

The Executive Director (ED) is the key management leader of the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica (LFJ), a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by lupus through advocacy, education, and support. The ED reports to the President of the LFJ for overall activities and to the Board of Directors on specific program activities, events, and operational matters. The ED oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring the efficient execution of programs, events, and organizational goals. This role requires a dynamic leader with excellent project management skills, financial acumen, and a deep commitment to the mission of LFJ.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Strategic Planning:

• Lead the organization in the development, implementation, and assessment of its strategic plan to advance its mission and objectives.
• Collaborate with the President and the Board of Directors to establish priorities and ensure that the organization is effectively meeting its goals.
• Foster an organizational culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking.

2. Day-to-Day Operations:

• Oversee the daily operations of the organization, ensuring that all contacts (regardless of the method of contact) are recorded in a manner that can easily be aggregated and summarized for internal and external presentation on short notice.
• Ensure that the office space is designed and maintained in a way that visually promotes LFJ’s mission.
• Supervise other staff to ensure performance and synergy are as required, and prepare and deliver performance reviews in line with HR policies.

3. Project Management & Events Planning:

• Manage a calendar of key events, such as the Medical Professional Symposium, World Lupus Day, and various fundraising periods and initiatives.
• Lead the detailed planning of events, including identifying necessary technical and promotional activities, establishing budgets in conjunction with the finance and budget directors, and determining volunteer needs and timelines to meet delivery targets.
• Create swim lane charts that identify which executive director or other key personnel are required to collaborate on events or program activities.

4. Financial Management & Income Reporting:

• Develop and manage the organization’s budget, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively and transparently.
• Ensure that accounting records are meticulously maintained for all inflows and expenditures, with traceability to specific programs, events, marketing initiatives, projects, or operational expenses.
• Monitor and report on the financial performance of the organization, providing regular updates to the President, Board, members, donors, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee financial audits and ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

5. Fundraising, Grant Writing & Reporting:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure financial support from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Oversee grant writing efforts, including identifying funding opportunities, developing proposals, and timely submitting applications.
• Prepare and submit grant reports, ensuring that funders are informed about the impact of their contributions and the progress of funded projects.

6. Board Relations & Governance:

• Report to the President on overall activities and to the Board of Directors on specifics related to various events, program activities, and operational matters.
• Highlight areas of concern or encumbrances that may impact the delivery of key programs, events, or activities, and request the Board’s permission to make changes that may directly impact or be construed as impacting LFJ’s articles of incorporation.
• Provide the Board with timely and accurate information on the organization’s activities, financial status, and progress toward strategic goals.

7. Community & Stakeholder Relations:

• Act as the primary spokesperson for the organization, representing LFJ to external audiences, including the media, community groups, and other stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with key partners, including community organizations, government agencies, donors, and other stakeholders.
• Lead efforts to raise public awareness of the organization’s mission and work.

8. Reporting & Documentation:

• Prepare and present an annual report that summarizes the organization’s achievements, financial health, and strategic goals.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including financial reports, program documentation, and compliance records.
• Regularly provide income reports to the Board, leadership, members, donors, policymakers, and other stakeholders to ensure they are informed about the organization’s financial status.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior leadership role within a nonprofit organization, with a strong background in project management, fundraising, and financial management.
• Proven experience in grant writing and donor relations, with a track record of securing significant funding.
• Demonstrated knowledge of nonprofit governance, compliance, and best practices.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• A deep commitment to the mission of LFJ and a passion for advancing the organization’s goals.