Description

THE HAVEN PROJECT – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Lynn, Massachusetts

 
Introduction
Youth homelessness comes in many forms.

The Haven Project is the only organization north of Boston dedicated exclusively to serving young adults ages 17–24 experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Founded in 2011, Haven provides age-appropriate, trauma-informed services that address both immediate needs and long-term stability.

Haven implements its mission through six focus areas:

Basic Needs
Housing
Employment
Education
Health
Community Engagement
From a drop-in center offering safety and connection, to supportive housing, to a mission-driven social enterprise café providing workforce development, Haven has grown into a recognized regional leader in youth homelessness response.

With an operating budget exceeding $2 million, joint venture ownership of 24 apartment units, a long-term lease of nine SRO units, and a social enterprise café, Haven is positioned for continued growth and expansion.

The Board of Directors is seeking a strategic and relational Executive Director to guide the organization into its next phase.

 
Mission
Equip and empower homeless or imminently homeless young adults with the skills and support they need to be safe and self-supporting.

Vision
A healthy and thriving community where every young adult has a home and access to opportunity.

 
A Pivotal Moment
Haven has evolved from a grassroots drop-in program into a multi-dimensional youth-serving organization.

Current programs include:

Drop-in center for basic needs and connection
Transitional and supportive housing
Social enterprise café (job training site)
Case management and wraparound services
Community partnerships across multiple systems
The organization is focused on:

Expanding housing
Strengthening partnerships
Growing revenue
Improving operational systems
Increasing regional leadership in youth homelessness
 
Position Overview
The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive and strategic partner to the Board.

Key responsibilities:

Lead strategic planning and implementation
Serve as primary ambassador and fundraiser
Ensure financial sustainability and operational excellence
Lead and support staff (12+ team members)
Oversee housing, programs, and social enterprise
Strengthen regional leadership
Reports to: Board President and Board of Directors

 
Primary Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership
Lead multi-year strategic planning
Stay informed on youth homelessness trends
Set priorities aligned with community needs
Translate strategy into measurable plans
Establish and track KPIs
Increase visibility and thought leadership
 
2. Governance & Board Partnership
Serve as ex officio Board member
Collaborate on board priorities and agendas
Provide regular reporting on programs and finances
Support board engagement and fundraising
Ensure governance best practices
 
3. Financial Management
Develop and manage annual budget
Ensure financial reporting and compliance
Oversee audits and grant requirements
Monitor risks and opportunities
Diversify revenue streams
Ensure compliance with all regulations
 
4. Resource Development
Lead fundraising strategy
Cultivate donors, foundations, and partners
Strengthen campaigns and events
Expand funding for growth
Engage Board in fundraising efforts
 
5. Organizational Leadership & Culture
Maintain a mission-driven, trauma-informed culture
Lead and mentor staff
Ensure clear roles and accountability
Support staff development and performance
Maintain strong internal communication
Oversee HR practices (hiring, evaluations, policies)
 
6. Programs & Housing Oversight
Ensure programs align with mission and needs
Identify expansion opportunities
Oversee housing compliance and quality
Use data to improve outcomes
Strengthen partnerships with providers and agencies
Maintain safe and welcoming facilities
 
7. Social Enterprise Leadership
Oversee café operations and workforce model
Improve profitability while maintaining mission
Identify earned revenue opportunities
Ensure operational and financial discipline
 
8. Policy, Advocacy & Community Leadership
Represent Haven in coalitions and partnerships
Build relationships with government leaders
Expand collaboration opportunities
Raise awareness of youth homelessness
Serve as public voice of the organization
Build strategic alliances across sectors

Requirements

Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will bring:

Leadership & Experience
10+ years of progressive leadership experience in a mission-driven organization
Demonstrated success in organizational growth and development
Proven ability to build, manage, and develop high-performing teams
Track record of setting and achieving strategic goals
 
Operations & Financial Management
Strong organizational management skills
Financial management and budgeting expertise
Strong business acumen
Strategic, data-informed decision-making ability
 
Fundraising & External Relations
Proven success in fundraising and donor cultivation
Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
Comfortable with public speaking and advocacy
Strong community presence and ability to build trust with civic, business, and volunteer leaders
 
Industry Knowledge
Experience in youth services, housing, social enterprise, or human services
Knowledge of nonprofit governance and board partnership
 
Community & Values Alignment
Active involvement in the Lynn and North Shore communities (personally and professionally)
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed practice
 
Preferred (Not Required)
Spanish language fluency
Experience overseeing property and facilities management
Advanced degree or equivalent leadership experience