the About Safe Space
Safe Space is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safety, advocacy, and support to individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, and other crimes of interpersonal violence. Through emergency shelter, crisis intervention, legal advocacy, prevention education, and community partnerships, Safe Space empowers survivors while promoting a community free from violence.
Our work is guided by trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and culturally responsive practices that honor the dignity and choices of every individual we serve.
Position Summary
The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, financial management, and strategic direction of Safe Space. Working closely with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director ensures the organization fulfills its mission while maintaining compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local grant requirements.
This position oversees all organizational operations, including emergency shelter services, advocacy programs, prevention education, staff supervision, volunteer management, financial oversight, fundraising, community engagement, and grant administration.
The Executive Director serves as the public face of Safe Space and builds collaborative relationships with community partners, government agencies, healthcare providers, law enforcement, schools, tribal communities, and funding organizations.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Organizational Management
- Provide visionary leadership that supports Safe Space’s mission and strategic goals.
- Promote a positive, trauma-informed workplace culture built on respect, collaboration, and accountability.
- Ensure organizational policies comply with all federal, state, and local regulations.
- Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to implement strategic initiatives and organizational priorities.
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold survivor-centered best practices.
Program Oversight
- Oversee emergency shelter operations and all victim service programs.
- Ensure services meet quality standards and grant requirements.
- Monitor program outcomes and implement quality improvement initiatives.
- Support development of new programs that respond to community needs.
Financial Management
- Develop and manage the annual operating budget.
- Ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources.
- Provide regular financial reports to the Board of Directors.
- Work with auditors and accountants to ensure financial compliance.
Grant Administration
The Executive Director is responsible for ensuring compliance with all funding requirements, including but not limited to:
- VOCA
- VAWA
- FVPSA
- Montana Board of Crime Control grants
- Foundation and private grants
Responsibilities include:
- Grant reporting
- Budget oversight
- Program performance measurement
- Monitoring deliverables
- Maintaining compliance documentation
- Identifying and pursuing additional funding opportunities
Human Resources
- Recruit, supervise, coach, and evaluate employees.
- Support staff development and retention.
- Foster a healthy workplace culture.
- Ensure compliance with employment laws and organizational policies.
- Oversee volunteer coordination and engagement.
Community Relations
- Serve as the primary spokesperson for Safe Space.
- Develop partnerships with law enforcement, hospitals, schools, tribal communities, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.
- Represent Safe Space on community coalitions and task forces.
- Increase public awareness through outreach and education.
Fundraising & Development
- Lead fundraising initiatives and donor stewardship.
- Cultivate relationships with community partners and philanthropic organizations.
- Support special events and community engagement activities.
- Diversify revenue sources to strengthen long-term sustainability.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
- Minimum five years of progressive leadership or management experience.
- Experience managing nonprofit budgets and grant-funded programs.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care and survivor-centered advocacy.
- Experience supervising employees and volunteers.
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Valid Montana driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in domestic violence, sexual assault, victim advocacy, behavioral health, or related human services.
- Experience managing VOCA, VAWA, FVPSA, or other federally funded grants.
- Nonprofit fundraising and donor development experience.
- Experience working with nonprofit Boards of Directors.
- Knowledge of Montana victim services systems and community resources.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Exceptional leadership and strategic planning abilities
- Strong financial and budget management skills
- Experience with grant administration and compliance
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Ability to build collaborative community partnerships
- Sound judgment and ethical decision-making
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Commitment to confidentiality and survivor empowerment
- Ability to lead with compassion, integrity, and accountability
Benefits
Safe Space offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
- Health insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Flexible scheduling when appropriate
Equal Opportunity Employer
Safe Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds who are passionate about supporting survivors and strengthening our community.
Pay: From $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
