Job Type

Full-time

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

STRIVE is seeking a results-driven, social justice-minded Director of NYC Programs (Program Directo) to lead our New York Program operations. This role is responsible for providing strategic leadership and day-to-day oversight across three key program teams, as well as the business development and student recruitment teams. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in workforce development and a strong track record of working with justice-impacted youth, the reentry population, and sector-based employment programs.

The Program Director will be accountable for strategic planning, program implementation and oversight, budget and resource management, performance monitoring and evaluation, compliance and risk management, and funder engagement. This individual will play a critical role in ensuring the sustainability and impact of our New York programs, while also supporting the continued growth and alignment of our broader national efforts.

We are looking for a dynamic leader who can drive program excellence, foster high-performing teams, and build strong partnerships to support New Yorkers in achieving long-term economic mobility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all STRIVE New York programs, including Career Path, Future Leaders, and Fresh Start, ensuring program effectiveness, alignment with STRIVE's mission, and achievement of performance outcomes.
• Hire, train, supervise, and support a diverse, high-performing staff across the program, business development, and recruitment teams, fostering a culture of accountability, equity, collaboration, and professional development.
• Oversee the implementation and continuous improvement of program models, including career readiness, sector-based training, job placement, and long-term retention strategies using disciplined data analysis, coaching, and staff development.
• Manage program budgets and resources effectively to meet STRIVE's overall performance targets of 80% graduation, 75% placement and ensure sustainability, working closely with the finance team and senior leadership.
• Lead strategic planning efforts in collaboration with STRIVE's leadership team to identify opportunities for program expansion, innovation, and integration across service areas.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with workforce development stakeholders, including employers, funders, government agencies, community-based organizations, and referral partners, to enhance program reach and impact.
• Utilize labor market data and employer feedback to design and refine sectoral training pathways and identify and manage relationships with third-party training providers.
• Oversee and ensure the accuracy of data systems (e.g., Apricot), performance tracking, contract compliance, and funder reporting; generate reports and analysis for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Work with PANDI to in the development and maintenance of program materials, including flowcharts, manuals, systems, and policies/procedures to ensure high-quality, consistent service delivery.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director to execute funder and stakeholder communication strategies.
• Identify risks and address operational and compliance challenges proactively to minimize disruptions and ensure the integrity of STRIVE's programming.
• Drive innovation and responsive program design to meet the evolving needs of New York's justice-impacted youth, reentry population, and low-income job seekers.
• Ensure effective student recruitment and enrollment strategies are implemented to meet or exceed contractual obligations across programs, with attention to equity and access.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in public administration, social work, education, or related field strongly preferred or a Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in workforce development, sector-based training, or employment services, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership or program management role.
• Deep understanding of and commitment to social justice, equity, and workforce practices that support justice-impacted youth, reentry populations, and economically marginalized communities.
• Demonstrated experience leading high-performing teams across multiple departments or program areas, including business development, recruitment, and direct service delivery.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, program design and implementation, performance management, and continuous quality improvement.
• Strong financial acumen, including experience managing program budgets, forecasting, and resource planning.
• Experience developing and maintaining partnerships with employers, community-based organizations, government agencies, and funders.
• Knowledge of labor market trends, sector-based training models, and best practices in employment pathways for system-impacted individuals.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, with the ability to lead diverse teams, build consensus, and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in data systems and performance tracking tools (e.g., Apricot or similar case management systems); strong data analysis and reporting skills.
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and adapting quickly in a mission-driven, outcomes-oriented organization.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Experience launching or scaling new programs or initiatives in a startup or evolving environment strongly preferred.

STRIVE offers a rich benefits package that includes: • Health insurance • Dental insurance • Life insurance • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) • Pre-tax Commuter Benefits Program • 401k with employer match • 20 days of PTO (pro-rated for part-time employees) • Sick leave • Up to $500 annual professional development reimbursement • Paid holidays (including week of Christmas) • Early closing each Friday during the Summers • And numerous additional benefits!Location: In person Monday-Friday in STRIVE's New York office.

Salary Description

90,000 - 110,000