Executive Director

Executive DirectorPositive Directions–The Center for Prevention & CounselingWestport, Connecticut Lead with purpose. Build community. Change lives. About Positive DirectionsFounded in 1971, Positive Directions is a trusted, community-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities through mental health treatment, substance use services, and prevention programs.For over five decades, we have been a respected presence in Fairfield County—providing individual and family counseling (including telehealth), partnering with schools and municipalities, and leading prevention initiatives that strengthen resilience and promote healthy decision-making.Today, Positive Directions is a thriving, mission-driven organization, licensed by DMHAS and deeply valued by the communities we serve. The OpportunityThis is a unique opportunity to lead a well-established, highly respected organization at an important moment in its evolution.We are seeking a dynamic, strategic, and hands-on Executive Director who brings both vision and execution—someone who can inspire others, strengthen operations, deepen community relationships, and drive long-term sustainability.Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves as the organization’s chief leader—guiding strategy, operations, fundraising, and external engagement in service of our mission, staff, clients, and community. Why This Role NowPositive Directions is entering a pivotal moment—one that calls for bold, thoughtful leadership.Demand for mental health and substance misuse services continues to accelerate across our region, placing community-based organizations like ours at the center of an increasingly urgent public health landscape. At the same time, Positive Directions has built a strong foundation: a trusted reputation, a committed and experienced team, engaged community partners, and a deeply supportive Board.With this momentum comes opportunity.The next Executive Director will step into a role with both stability and meaningful runway—well-positioned to strengthen financial sustainability, expand clinical and prevention programming, and elevate the organization’s visibility and voice in the community. This is not simply a leadership transition—it is a chance to shape the next era of Positive Directions. The right leader will bring clarity, energy, and strategic focus to guide growth, deepen impact, and ensure the organization continues to meet rising needs with excellence, innovation, and compassion. What You Will Do Champion the MissionLead the organization in advancing its mission, vision, and long-term strategic directionPartner with the Board and staff to identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and impactServe as a visible and engaged ambassador in the communityInspire People & CultureFoster a culture of collaboration, accountability, equity, and excellenceBuild strong relationships across staff, leadership, and BoardRecruit, support, and retain a talented and mission-driven teamStrengthen SustainabilityOversee the organization’s financial health, including budgeting and financial reportingImplement strong fiscal practices and ensure accountabilityPartner with the Board to expand fundraising and resource development effortsDrive Fundraising & External EngagementServe as the public face of Positive DirectionsBuild and sustain relationships with donors, foundations, government agencies, and community partnersIdentify and pursue funding opportunities across individual, corporate, and institutional channelsExpand Visibility & PartnershipsElevate the organization’s profile and communicate its impact with clarity and confidenceLead outreach, marketing, and communications effortsStrengthen and expand strategic partnershipsLead Effective OperationsOversee day-to-day operations, including human resources, compliance, and risk managementEnsure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and licensing requirementsExecute contracts, grants, and agreements on behalf of the organization What You BringWe are seeking a leader who is both strategic and hands-on—someone who can inspire confidence, build strong relationships, and translate vision into action. Required:Experience in behavioral health, mental health, or substance misuse servicesExperience in nonprofit management or human services5–7 years of leadership experienceDemonstrated success in fundraising and resource developmentStrong financial and operational management skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsConfidence and effectiveness in public speakingPreferred:Experience building organizational capacity and long-term sustainabilityClinical or programmatic experience in behavioral healthEducationMaster’s degree in nonprofit management, public health, social work, mental health, or a related field requiredCompensation & BenefitsSalary range: $125,000 – $150,000, commensurate with experienceComprehensive benefits package, including:Health, dental, and vision insuranceGenerous paid time off (4 weeks PTO)IRA with employer matchEligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Why Join Positive Directions?At Positive Directions, you’ll lead an organization that truly makes a difference—every day.You’ll work alongside a passionate and committed leadership team and staff, a supportive and engaged Board, and a network of community partners who care deeply about this work. Together, you’ll help shape the future of an organization that is improving lives across the region. How to ApplyPlease submit your resume and cover letter to:📧 PositiveDirectionsSearch@gmail.comInclude your last name in the filenamesTo learn more, visit:🌐 www.positivedirections.orgEqual Opportunity EmployerPositive Directions is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value diverse experiences and perspectives and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants.