Vice President, Shelter Programs chez undefined

Position Summary: 
 Directly reporting to the Chief Operations Officer, the Vice President of Shelter Programs provides strategic and operational leadership for PathForward’s shelter programs, overseeing the Homeless Services Center (HSC) and Residential Program Center (RPC). This position directly supervises the Senior Director of HSC Programs and the Shelter Director of RPC Programs, ensuring high-quality service delivery, operational excellence, and alignment with PathForward’s mission. The VP ensures services are client-centered, trauma-informed, and aligned with the organization’s mission and strategic goals. This position supervises program directors, develops performance metrics, drives innovation, and strengthens partnerships with funders, community organizations, and government agencies. The VP of Programs is a member of the Senior Leadership Team and collaborates across the organization to strengthen program integration, advance strategic priorities, and maintain compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements.

This position will primarily sit at the Homeless Services Center and will be required to work onsite five days per week at PathForward’s Arlington, VA office.  Will split time between both the HSC and RPC shelters.  After 90 days of employment, the VP of Programs may work remotely one day per week, with supervisor approval.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction for all program operations at the HSC and RPC, ensuring alignment with organizational mission, strategic plan, and Arlington County contracts.
• Directly supervises the Senior Director of HSC Programs and the Shelter Director, RPC Programs, offering coaching, guidance, and performance management.[KJ1] 
• Provides in direct oversight of all shelter program staff.
• Develop, implement, and continuously quality service delivery models that reflect best practices in homelessness services.
• Ensure program models are aligned with Housing First principles, harm reduction, and equity-centered care.
• Lead cross-program integration and ensure continuity of care for clients moving between services.
• Ensure consistent program quality and accountability through data tracking, evaluation, and compliance monitoring.
• Lead continuous quality improvement (CQI) initiatives based on data and client feedback.
• Oversee adherence to budgetary and contractual obligations; partner with Finance and Development teams to ensure fiscal responsibility and resource alignment.
• Collaborate with County partners, community organizations, and service providers to strengthen systems of care and client outcomes.
• Promote a housing-focused culture across both shelters, ensuring programs equip clients with skills and supports to achieve stability and independence.
• Serve as the lead liaison with Arlington County on shelter program matters, ensuring strong communication, transparency, and responsiveness.
• Partner with the Development team to identify opportunities for funding, volunteer engagement, and community partnerships.
• Represent PathForward with external stakeholders, including donors, community partners, government agencies, and neighborhood associations.
• Serve as part of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to organization-wide decision-making, planning, and strategy.
• Ensure safety protocols, emergency procedures, and facility needs are addressed and coordinated in collaboration with facilities manager.
• Provide crisis management support and serve as senior-level escalation contact as needed.
• Model PathForward’s values of dignity, respect, and client-centered care in all interactions.

External Relations & Advocacy

• Represent the organization at public events, coalitions, and meetings with government agencies.
• Build and sustain partnerships with service providers, hospitals, funders, and local jurisdictions.
• Advocate for policies and resources that support housing access, social services, and health equity.

Qualifications and Skills

• Strong leadership, communication, and management skills with the ability to inspire and support high-performing teams.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing shelter or housing programs, ideally within the homelessness services sector.
• Skilled in data-driven decision-making, contract compliance, and program evaluation.
• Ability to build strong relationships with county officials, community partners, and donors.
• Counseling, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution skills preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and HMIS or similar databases.
• Valid driver’s license.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in social work, Human Services, Nonprofit Management, or related field strongly preferred.
• 10 - 15 years of progressive leadership experience in human services or nonprofit management, including supervisory responsibility for senior-level staff.[KJ2] 
• Proven successful experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, behavioral health challenges, and/or substance use disorders.
• Experiencing in de-escalation, diversion, and/or critical incident training.  Proven experience training is said areas is highly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Primarily sedentary work environment with occasional lifting up to 30 lbs.