Employment Opportunity
Executive Director, Wallingford Senior Center (WSC)
The Wallingford Senior Center, nationally accredited and acknowledged throughout Connecticut as a premier provider of activities and services for 60+ adults, is seeking strong applicants for the position of Executive Director.
The qualified candidate will demonstrate 3-5 years proven organizational leadership, financial management proficiency, and excellent communication skills, as well as sensitivity to the complexities of aging in today’s world. Building on the WSC’s success, the Executive Director will advance its mission through strategic planning, financial sustainability, and positive relationships with staff, members, local partners, and the community.
The WSC is designed to meet the wide-ranging needs of older adults, their families, and the community by providing innovative programming and high quality services in a safe, stimulating, and welcoming environment. Membership is open to all Wallingford residents age 60 and over, and currently serves more than 4,000 members. It is operated by the non-profit 501 (c) 3 Wallingford Committee on Aging, Inc. with significant support from the town of Wallingford. It functions in accordance with the standards developed by the National Council on Aging and the National Institute of Senior Centers. The Executive Director manages 25 full and part time employees, engages with numerous volunteers, manages an annual operating budget of just over one million dollars, and reports to an independent Board of Directors.
The WSC is centrally located in a spacious, well-maintained building overlooking Community Lake. The facility is home to Memory Lane, a vibrant social-model adult daycare program; a robust transportation program featuring four mini-buses providing over 10,000 rides annually; the popular Lake View Café providing over 35,000 nutritious, cost-conscious meals a year; a well-equipped gym and fitness program; and numerous classes, activities, veterans programs, and travel opportunities. The WSC is noted for its social services, emotional and mental health support, problem-solving, and outreach. In short, the WSC is a valued asset to the community.
The town of Wallingford, population 44,000, is located between New Haven and Hartford off I-91 and the Wilbur Cross Parkway (Rt 15). In addition to its full-service award-winning senior center, Wallingford offers strong public schools, a vibrant, walkable downtown, an array of programs and activities through the Wallingford Public Library, Wallingford Parks and Recreation, YMCA, Spanish Community of Wallingford (SCOW), Wallingford Symphony Orchestra, Choate Rosemary Hall prep school, as well as proximity to colleges and universities.
To apply for this position, send a cover letter, resume, and contact information and three professional references to searchcommittee@wlfdseniorctr.com on or before March 24, 2025. Anticipated start date: June 9, 2025.
Job Summary
The Executive Director (ED) is the chief executive officer of the Wallingford Senior Center, a non-profit organization established and funded by the Wallingford Committee on Aging (WCOA). The position requires: proven leadership, supervision, and interpersonal skills; financial management proficiency; sensitivity to the needs of older adults and knowledge of the continuum of aging; supervision of physical plant maintenance; strong communication and technology skills. The ED collaborates with stakeholders to establish and evaluate strategic goals, ensure financial sustainability, and maintain positive relationships with staff, members, local partners, and the community. The ED reports to the WCOA Board of Directors.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Human Resources
Develop, implement, and evaluate WSC vision, strategic goals, and objectives
Manage human resources responsibilities: recruiting, hiring, training, evaluating, team building, problem-solving
Maintain job descriptions and Employee Handbook
Inspire and motivate staff and volunteers
Cultivate positive relationships with membership, reach out to underserved older adults, seek feedback
Build strong partnerships with municipal officials, community stakeholders, and state organizations
Monitor emerging issues regarding the continuum of aging to inform decision-making and strategic planning
Financial Management and Development
Prepare annual budget, financial reports, annual report, tax filings; 501(c) 3 regulation compliance
Supervise payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, monthly reconciliation, reporting, audit preparation
Lead development and fundraising activities; build relationships with donors, corporate partners, foundations
Prepare grant proposals, monitor implementation and compliance
Manage insurance coverages, risk management, and claims
Facilities Management
Oversee physical plant maintenance to meet health and safety requirements, including Lake View Cafe, Club 60+, security systems, fire safety
Supervise transportation services, FTA drug and alcohol testing compliance, drivers’ licenses, health exam status, and passenger safety
Direct major projects, including construction and renovation
Prepare specifications for competitive bidding; coordinate with municipal and private vendors for services such as landscaping, HVAC, professional cleaning, and janitorial
Respond to building emergencies
Communication Skills
Communicate effectively: verbally, in writing, and as a public speaker or presenter
Maintain open communication with staff, volunteers, and membership; seek feedback
Manage technology, improve website, and oversee the use social media to enhance members’ experience
Analyze data and use feedback to inform decision-making
Prepare monthly and annual reports, conduct staff meetings, present information and report to WCOA Board of Directors
Oversee publication of monthly membership newsletter, community announcements, marketing efforts, and outreach
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; Master’s degree preferred
- Minimum of 3-5 years management experience in non-profit or related field
- Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting
- Strong knowledge of issues regarding the continuum of aging to inform decision-making and strategic planning
- Proven track record of successful fundraising and donor relations
- Strong communication skills and technology experience
- Ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics and make tough decisions
- Experience in strategic planning, implementation, and assessment
Desired Skills:
- Leadership skills, including the ability to inspire, motivate, and build teams
- Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving abilities
- Familiarity with relevant local, state, and federal regulation
- Skilled in public speaking, media relations, and advocac• Experience with non-profit governance and board management
Physical Requirements:
- Assist in set-up for programs and activities, including moving chairs and tables as needed
- Evening and weekend work as needed
- Travel locally and, if necessary, nationally
Benefits & Compensation:
Salary range: $85,000 – $95,000, depending on qualifications and experience
15 vacation days, 13 paid holidays, 2 personal days
Medical and dental insurance
Employee pension after one year of service
Equal Employment Policy
It is the policy of the WCOA and WSC to provide, in accordance with all applicable laws, equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants regardless of any legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
To apply for this position, send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to searchcommittee@wlfdseniorctr.com on or before March 24, 2025. Anticipated start date: June 9, 2025.