Director Southwest Chicago Community Programs

Director Southwest Chicago Community Programs

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago Pay Range

This range is provided by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$65,000.00/yr - $80,000.00/yr

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.

Position Summary

Provide strategic oversight and operational leadership for Catholic Charities programs and partnerships in Southwest Chicago. Ensure that services are delivered with consistency, compassion, and measurable impact. Identify, plan, and implement new ministries that respond to emerging needs and enrich the lives of those who walk through our doors. Ensure that Catholic Charities Southwest Chicago community programs and spaces are welcoming and inclusive for all who enter, including employees, clients, volunteers, and supporters. Lead the Parish Family Sponsorship Program, supporting immigrant and refugee families as they settle in Greater Chicago, and partner with the Faith and Mission team on parish engagement to provide meaningful support to families. Build and sustain strong community and external partnerships to expand engagement, collaboration, and impact in Southwest Chicago.

Core Operational Responsibilities

Provide strategic and operational leadership for all Southwest Chicago community programs and activities. Oversee daily operations to ensure high-quality service delivery, compliance with agency standards, and efficient coordination across functions. Partner with the Facilities team to maintain safe, welcoming, and well-managed spaces that support programming and community engagement.

Role Growth, Performance, and Outreach Goals

Monitor program performance, volunteer engagement, and client outcomes to drive continuous improvement. Use data, feedback, and impact metrics to identify trends, address challenges, and celebrate successes. Contribute to division-wide strategic planning and performance improvement efforts to strengthen the reach, sustainability, and effectiveness of Community Programs.

External Relationship Responsibilities

Cultivate and sustain partnerships with local peer organizations, faith leaders, and elected officials to strengthen the social safety net and expand access to community services. Represent Catholic Charities in external forums and collaborate with Government, Donor, and Volunteer Relations teams to ensure programs are accessible, visible, and well-supported.

Internal, Cross‑Functional Collaboration Responsibilities

Collaborate across departments to advance shared goals and maximize program impact. Partner with the finance team to develop, monitor, and manage the center's budget, ensuring resources are aligned with program priorities. Work closely with program leaders and frontline staff to foster a workplace culture that reflects Catholic Charities' core values and commitment to service.

Team Leadership Responsibilities

Lead and support a small but high‑impact team, including one direct report and a large network of volunteers. Set clear direction, provide regular feedback and guidance, and model accountability, collaboration, and mission alignment. Participate in recruitment, selection, and performance management, address staff concerns, and apply appropriate disciplinary actions as needed to foster a positive and productive work environment. Ensure staff and volunteers are equipped to deliver high-quality services and represent Catholic Charities with professionalism and care.

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.

Team Structure

• Client Navigator

Preferred Education & Experience

• Master's degree in nonprofit management, social work, public administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in community program leadership, social services, or nonprofit operations.

Minimum Qualifications & Skills

• Demonstrated success in partnership building, staff development, and operational management.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
• Proven ability to lead teams with compassion, accountability, and strategic focus.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem‑solving skills.
• Commitment to CCAC's purpose and values, and to advancing equitable, inclusive, and community‑driven services.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Experience leading programs in a community center or multi‑service environment.
• Familiarity with community engagement, outreach, and coalition‑building strategies.

Physical Requirements

• Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
• Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time
• Lift, push, and pull up to 25lbs

Screening Requirements

• Seniority level: Director
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Other
• Industries: Individual and Family Services, Non‑profit Organizations, and Public Relations and Communications Services