Dated posted 1/15/2026
Job Title: Executive Director
Location: Poughkeepsie, NY
Type: Full-time, Exempt
Reports to: Board of Directors
Organization Overview:
Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc. (TRI) is a disability rights advocacy organization located in Poughkeepsie, NY. TRI advocates for the civil rights of individuals with disabilities in Dutchess County and empowers them to lead self-directed lives with independence and dignity.
Position Summary:
We are currently seeking an Executive Director who is a passionate disability rights advocate. This person will lead operations, foster growth, and drive the mission of the organization. The Executive Director (ED) will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for TRI staff, programs, administration, and execution of its advocacy mission. The ED will maintain deep knowledge of the field, core programs, operations, and business plans.
This full-time exempt position reports to a supportive and professional Board of Directors. The ED will have overall management responsibility for an organization with a $2 million annual budget, and 16 full and part-time employees.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee the operations of the organization. Ensure ongoing programmatic excellence, rigorous program evaluation, and consistent quality of services and communications.
- Serve as chief spokesperson for the organization. Promote TRI and its programs in the media and to the general public, and manage the image of the agency. Lead the effort to advocate for the disability community and individual independence by maintaining relationships with governmental, corporate, and partner organizations.
- Play a key role in public relations, marketing and the creation of publications and social media campaigns. Drive outreach and advocacy while cultivating donor engagement and a culture of philanthropy among stakeholders.
- Provide management and oversight of TRI’s financial function, including budget preparation, monthly financial reports and analysis, and establishment of financial controls. Identify funding sources, submit grant requests, and ensure compliance with contracts, regulations of oversight bodies, and general state and federal laws.
- Manage all full and part-time staff, consultants and volunteers. Lead, coach, develop, and retain a high-performing staff. Foster a positive and engaging workplace culture, and maintain equitable compensation and performance management systems.
- Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors. Serve as ex-officio member of the Board and Committees. Provide regular and ad hoc reporting to Board, direct the strategic planning process, and assist with Board development activities.
- Other duties and responsibilities as deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors.
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree preferred from an accredited college in human services, business, social work or related field. Bachelor’s degree accepted with considerable relevant experience.
- Minimum of 8-10 years’ experience in a management position in a non-profit organization, preferably in the disabilities support and advocacy field.
- Experience providing programs, support and advocacy to persons with disabilities. Familiarity with federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related state laws.
- Experience in organizational management with the ability to coach staff, manage, and develop high performance teams, set and achieve strategic objectives, and manage a budget.
- Strong marketing and public relations experience with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders and cultures, including donors, funders and the disabilities community.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; a persuasive communicator and experienced public speaker with excellent interpersonal and presentation skills.
Working Conditions:
- Ability to handle a flexible schedule for a variety of obligations, meetings, and organization events after normal business hours. Travel throughout the service region is expected.
- Must possess a valid NYS Driver’s License, have a clean driving record, and successfully complete a criminal background and other pre-employment screening.
- Ability to work in a typical office environment, sitting for long periods, interfacing with modern technology, etc.
- Remote work is generally not a viable option as this position requires significant visibility and interactions among employees and stakeholders. Working from home will be considered where appropriate.
Compensation:
Competitive starting salary, depending on experience, of between $90,000 - $100,000 per year, plus a generous benefit package, including no cost share medical insurance, a 403(b) retirement plan, and substantial Paid Time Off.
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applications will be accepted until approximately February 1, 2026.
Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer
