Executive Director

Position Type: Full-time, Exempt
Reports To: Board of Directors
Location: Rhode Island

Transform Lives. Build Communities. Champion Recovery.

Are you ready to lead a movement that changes everything? Rhode Island's recovery community organization is seeking a visionary Executive Director who doesn't just manage programs—but ignites hope, builds bridges, and creates lasting change for individuals and families touched by addiction. We're not just another nonprofit. We're the heartbeat of recovery in Rhode Island, the voice that refuses to be silenced, and the force that turns struggles into strength. Every day, we prove that recovery isn't just possible—it's powerful.

Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It

As our Executive Director, you'll orchestrate a symphony of transformation across Rhode Island. You're not just filling a position; you're stepping into a role that shapes the future of recovery for thousands of individuals, families, and allies who deserve dignity, support, and a real chance at lasting recovery.

You’ll champion recovery housing standards that create environments where residents build lasting foundations for recovery. Be the driving force behind a thriving network of peer recovery specialists who turn their lived experience into lifechanging support. Your leadership will fuel bold advocacy that breaks down barriers and builds up communities, while spearheading educational initiatives that shatter stigma and spark understanding. You'll also champion the Rally4Recovery—our annual celebration of resilience, courage, and hope that brings our entire community together to celebrate every victory along the recovery journey.

Key Responsibilities

Recovery Housing Operations & Oversight

• Accreditation & Standards: Implement NARR's national quality standards for recovery residences, ensuring safe and supportive sober living environments
• Certification Programs: Certify recovery residences that meet established criteria for operations, safety, and recovery-focused programming
• Training & Education: Provide training for residence operators, staff, and administrators on best practices, ethics, and regulatory compliance
• Quality Assurance: Conduct regular inspections and monitoring of certified homes to maintain standards
• Policy Development: Work with state and local governments on zoning laws, licensing requirements, and fair housing issues affecting recovery residences
• Community Relations: Address NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) concerns and educate communities about the importance of recovery housing
• Resource Coordination: Connect residences with treatment providers, social services, and other recovery support organizations
• Technical Assistance: Help new recovery residences understand regulations, funding options, and operational requirements

Peer Recovery Specialist Development & Support

• Provide professional development for recovery housing staff and peer recovery specialists
• Launch professional association for RI certified peer recovery specialist.

Community Education & Engagement

• Execute annual public education initiatives
• Oversee development of educational materials including presentations, brochures, and video content
• Lead Rally 4 Recovery event and Recovery Month programming

Advocacy & Policy Development

• Conduct legislative environmental scanning and provide quarterly monitoring reports
• Facilitate advocacy workgroups and stakeholder engagement initiatives
• Maintain advocacy calendar and coordinate monthly recovery ally training workshops
• Represent organization in policy discussions and community partnerships

Grant Writing & Fundraising

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategy through diversified revenue streams
• Research, write, and submit grant proposals to federal, state, foundation, and corporate funders
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with current and prospective donors
• Oversee donor database management and stewardship activities
• Coordinate fundraising events and campaigns in alignment with organizational mission and community engagement goals
• Prepare detailed financial reports and grant compliance documentation for all funding sources

Organizational Leadership & Management

• Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for all organizational functions
• Ensure fiscal responsibility including budget management, fundraising, and regulatory compliance
• Manage human resources including staff development, policy implementation, and performance management
• Oversee facilities management, insurance, and risk management protocols
• Direct IT initiatives including website management, online resource development, and digital communications

Reporting & Compliance

• Ensure timely submission of all required reports to state agencies and funders
• Maintain comprehensive documentation and quality assurance systems
• Oversee data collection and analysis for program evaluation and improvement

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, public administration, nonprofit management, or related field
• Minimum 7 years progressive leadership experience in behavioral health, recovery services, or related nonprofit sector
• Demonstrated experience in program development, staff management, and fiscal oversight
• Experience with state contracting, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance processes

Knowledge & Skills:

• Deep understanding of substance use disorders, recovery principles, and evidence-based practices
• Strong knowledge of Rhode Island's behavioral health system and recovery housing standards
• Expertise in nonprofit management including budgeting, fundraising, and board relations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to engage diverse stakeholders
• Proficiency in data management, reporting systems, and Microsoft Office suite
• Experience with website management and digital communications platforms

Certifications & Licenses:

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required

Preferred Qualifications

• Lived experience in recovery from substance use disorders
• Master’s degree in social work, public administration, nonprofit management, or related field
• Previous experience as Executive Director or senior leader in recovery-focused organization
• Knowledge of NARR standards and recovery housing best practices
• Current Rhode Island Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) certification or equivalent preferred
• Experience with volunteer management and community organizing
• Bilingual capabilities (Spanish preferred)

Competencies

Leadership & Vision

• Ability to develop and communicate organizational vision and strategic direction
• Strong decision-making skills with ability to balance multiple priorities
• Experience building and maintaining collaborative partnerships

Program Management

• Proven ability to manage multiple complex programs simultaneously
• Strong project management skills with attention to detail and deadlines
• Experience with quality improvement and outcome measurement

Financial Management

• Budget development and oversight experience
• Grant writing and fundraising capabilities
• Understanding of nonprofit financial management and compliance

Communication & Relationship Building

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with ability to work with diverse populations
• Strong public speaking and presentation abilities
• Experience working with government agencies, community partners, and media

Working Conditions

• Standard office environment with occasional travel throughout Rhode Island
• Evening and weekend work required for events and meetings
• Physical demands include ability to lift up to 25 pounds and stand for extended periods during events
• Exposure to sensitive topics related to substance use, mental health, and recovery

Compensation & Benefits

Starting salary of $85,000 negotiable commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, professional development opportunities, and paid time off.

To Apply

Submit cover letter and resume to Board@ricares.org. by October 1, 2025.  

Our organization is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals with lived experience in recovery.