Network of Community Ministries (“Network”) was founded over 39 years ago to provide for those in need of immediate, fundamental support. Today, Network provides comprehensive wraparound services that include a client-choice food pantry and mobile food pantry, clothing closet, case management and stabilization coaching, mental health services, senior services, and programs for children and families. Network serves the 46-square mile, 14-zipcode service area of the Richardson Independent School District that spans Dallas, Richardson, and Garland. Last year, more than 26,000 unique neighbors received services from Network. It is supported by businesses, individuals, and a coalition of religious, civic, and social organizations. The Board, staff, and volunteers embrace the organization’s mission: to care, coach, and empower our neighbors in need as they seek an improved quality of life.                

Position Summary:

As a member of Network’s Senior Leadership Team, the Chief Program Officer (CPO) is responsible for managing the complete life cycle (i.e., development, implementation, and delivery) of Network’s high-volume programs including Food Pantry and Mobile Pantry, Clothing Closet, and Seniors’ Net. On a day-to-day basis, the CPO leads, manages, and coordinates the work of multiple program areas and is responsible for ensuring successful cross-coordination between program areas and with other departments. The CPO is a skilled manager, with experience and comfort interacting with staff at all levels, and directly supervising various roles within the programs team (5 FTEs). The CPO is nimble, transparent, and thrives in a participatory leadership environment. The CPO also oversees data integrity for the organization, utilizing Network’s client management system.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategy Execution 

• Function as a member of the Senior Leadership team, providing direction and decision-making that impacts the agency and program goals.
• Coordinate with the Chief Strategy Officer in the development and implementation of strategic planning and lead key initiatives assigned to the CPO role. Help develop new program ideas, launch pilot projects, and integrate successful pilots into the program areas.
• Support fund development efforts, partnering with the Chief Development Officer for proposal writing, grant reporting, and fundraising events.
• Serve as subject matter expert on program areas. Represents network on committees and community initiatives that support the mission and strategic vision.
• Conduct ongoing research to stay abreast of trends, statistics, and best practices related to Network vision.

Leadership and Team Development 

• Create and support a high-performing culture aligned with core values. Develop a team-based environment to motivate and inspire staff to work collaboratively toward vision and goals.
• Hire, train, and supervise program managers, and ensure staff have the necessary resources and training to be successful in their roles. Coordinate with the senior leadership team to identify leadership and professional development opportunities.
• Determine staffing plans to achieve program goals and objectives.
• In collaboration with the Chief Financial Officer, develop an annual budget and operating plan for programs; maintain a balanced budget.

Program Oversight and Evaluation

• Oversee the coordination, integration, and delivery of programs, contracts, and related services, promoting collaborative relationships between program areas and ensuring that expectations of funders, partners, members, and other stakeholders are consistently met.
• Continuously evaluate the operations and quality of programs and services, and ensure that each has the appropriate infrastructure (staffing, resources, technology, processes) to support current activities and projected growth.
• Establish annual program, departmental, and staff goals. Track results at least monthly, implementing corrective measures when needed.
• Work closely with the finance department to ensure sound fiscal management of programs.
• Coordinate and analyze data to inform the decision-making process for programs. Use the Apricot360 platform to evaluate data, efficiency, transparency, and collaborative efforts among program areas.
• Deepen existing and create new measures for outreach and recruitment.

Top candidates will have the following experience and characteristics:

• Minimum five years of work experience demonstrating competency supervisory experience in program management.
• Bachelor’s degree with a preferred emphasis in business administration or social work.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and compile complex data for planning and reporting purposes.
• Excellent interpersonal, management, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of budget development, administration, and staff management.
• Computer skills preferred include MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and client management systems.
• Demonstrated commitment to basic needs services and wraparound care that move individuals from short-term assistance to long-term independence.
• Expertise in one or more of Network’s core program areas.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Apricot360 and QuickBooks Online.
• Strong relationship builder with the ability to find common ground, build consensus, and strengthen collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders including food banks, municipalities, and school districts.
• Demonstrated experience managing high-performance teams including professional development and mentorship.
• Comprehensive working knowledge of program planning, organizational structure, budgeting, administrative operations, and fundraising.

How to Apply: Please submit your resume to ceo@thenetwork.org. Please put “Network CPO” in the subject line. No phone calls, please. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with a target start date of July 2024.