Executive Director, Restavek Freedom

Restavek Freedom seeks an experienced, dynamic, and compassionate Executive Director (ED) to lead and grow the organization. The ED will be responsible for overseeing all strategic, operational, and financial aspects of the organization, working closely with the Board of Directors, US-based and Haiti-based staff, partners, and external stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, and management skills, a deep commitment to the work of justice, be a committed Christian who demonstrates a mature and growing relationship with Jesus Christ, and be- able to lead the organization in alignment with their values, and possess an entrepreneurial spirit to advance the organization’s mission and maximize its impact.

ABOUT RESTAVEK FREEDOM

Restavek Freedom is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the practice of child slavery, known as restavek, in Haiti. Through advocacy, education, and direct services, Restavek Freedom helps educate and empower vulnerable children, provide resources for family reunification, support the reintegration of children into their communities, and change the culture so that Haitians end the practice of restavek. We are on a mission to end restavek in Haiti so that every child can grow up in a safe, healthy, and loving environment.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Restavek Freedom seeks an experienced, dynamic, and compassionate Executive Director (ED) to lead and grow the organization. The ED will be responsible for overseeing all strategic, operational, and financial aspects of the organization, working closely with the Board of Directors, US-based and Haiti-based staff, partners, and external stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, and management skills, a deep commitment to the work of justice, be a committed Christian who demonstrates a mature and growing relationship with Jesus Christ, and be- able to lead the organization in alignment with their values, and possess an entrepreneurial spirit to advance the organization’s mission and maximize its impact.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Strategy:

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction to end restavek in Haiti.
• Collaborate with the co-founders and Board of Directors to develop long-term organizational goals, strategic initiatives, and budgets to support the mission. Serve as the primary spokesperson for Restavek Freedom, representing the organization locally, nationally, and internationally.

Program Development & Impact:

• Oversee the implementation and evaluation of Restavek Freedom’s programs and services in the US and in Haiti.
• Implement the strategy and plan developed for the next five years including the current capital campaign, The Hope Expansion.
• Ensure that all programs are aligned with the organization's mission and are delivered efficiently and effectively.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the organization to address the needs of vulnerable children in Haiti and adapt to the conditions in Haiti.
• Measure and evaluate programs effectively in collaboration with our M&E strategist.

Financial Management:

• Develop and manage the organization’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability and operational efficiency.
• Ensure sound financial practices, including proper accounting and reporting, and maintain a transparent and accountable financial structure.
• Cultivate and maintain trusted relationships with donors, foundations, and other funding sources to secure resources necessary to meet the organization's goals.

Fundraising & External Relations:

• Work closely with the Director of Development to lead fundraising efforts, including identifying new funding opportunities, managing donor relationships, and diversifying revenue streams.
• Work with the Director of Design and Donor Engagement to develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to increase awareness of the organization’s mission and attract support.
• Establish and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including governmental agencies, churches, and other non-profits and community groups.

Staff Management & Development:

• Lead, manage, and mentor a dedicated team in the US and Haiti.
• Foster an organizational culture that is mission-oriented and encourages teamwork, accountability, transparency, and professional growth.
• Provide staff guidance and support to ensure they have the resources and training needed to succeed in their roles.

Board Relations:

• Support the Board of Directors in its governance role, providing regular updates on the organization’s performance, challenges, and opportunities.
• Assist with Board recruitment, development, and orientation as needed.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, legal requirements, and best practices.
• Plan quarterly board meetings and agendas.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven experience as an executive-level leader in a non-profit organization, ideally within the social justice, human rights, or child protection sector.
• A deep understanding of the problem of human trafficking, particularly in Haiti.
• Strong strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor relations, and cultivating financial support.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills, with the ability to represent the organization effectively to various audiences.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, financial planning, and managing organizational resources.
• Experience managing and motivating teams, with a commitment to professional development and staff growth.
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment and navigate challenges related to working in Haiti or similar contexts.
• Fluent in English, fluency in Haitian Creole is preferred, fluency in French is very helpful.
• Ability to travel locally, nationally, and internationally up to 25% of time.

Education

• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., international development, social work, or human rights). A Master’s degree is preferred.

COMPENSATION

• Competitive salary based on experience, with benefits including health insurance, paid time off.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume, along with references, to joan@restavekfreedom.org. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Ideally, the candidate will shadow the current Executive Director for [3-6 months] before assuming full leadership.

Restavek Freedom is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in its staff and programming. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience related to the organization’s mission, to apply.