Location: This position is based out of SETHRA’s central office in Dunlap, TN (outside of Chattanooga, TN)

OVERVIEW

Are you a visionary leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, compassion, and operational excellence? Do you believe that strong systems and bold ideas can transform lives—especially for those most vulnerable? We are seeking a dynamic Deputy Executive Director to help steer our organization through a period of exciting growth and deep community impact.
This is a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven nonprofit that values integrity, accountability, fun, and healthy conflict as much as it values results. You’ll play a critical role in shaping programs, strengthening operations, securing funding, and building relationships—with a focus on process improvement, strategic planning, and inclusive leadership. If you’re a skilled grant writer, a thoughtful manager, and a passionate advocate for meaningful change, we want to hear from you.
The Deputy Executive Director plays a pivotal role in supporting the organization’s mission and strategic objectives. This leadership position involves collaborating with senior management to drive operational excellence, enhance business development initiatives, and ensure effective project management. The Deputy Director will be instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous improvement while collaborating with various departments to achieve organizational goals.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, or related. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years experience serving vulnerable populations.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience researching, writing, and managing local, state, federal, foundation, and corporate grants with demonstrated success in grant writing and management.
• Minimum of 5 years experience in nonprofit/business management with proven experience in nonprofit leadership, including operations and program management.
• Strong strategic planning and change management skills.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and compassion with the ability to foster a fun, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace culture.
• Experience in affordable housing development is a plus.
  The Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency (SETHRA) is one of nine Human Resource Agencies in the State of Tennessee serving primarily 10 counties in the southeast region. SETHRA provides a plethora of community services to vulnerable populations serving 50,000+ people each year. Our programs include everything from public transportation and aging and disability services to food, utility, and housing assistance. SETHRA currently employs 200+ people throughout the service area with 16 office locations. The agency is preparing to scale up and is focused on improving and enhancing our organization culture and health.
  Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Relocation assistance
• Retirement plan

Education:

• Master’s (Preferred)

Experience:

• Facility management: 5 years (Preferred)
• Nonprofit management: 5 years (Required)
• Grant proposal writing: 5 years (Required)
• Operations management: 5 years (Required)
• Affordable housing development: 5 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Dunlap, TN 37327 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Dunlap, TN 37327: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In perso

• Organizational leadership and change management
• Grant writing and management
• Program development and oversight
• Operations and budget management, including facilities and administrative systems.
• Vendor relationships and management
• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, partners, and community leaders, representing the agency at public events and community meetings.
• Provide senior leadership by guiding teams in achieving operational targets and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Implement process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across operations.
• Collaborate with department heads to streamline operations management and optimize resource allocation.
• Mentor and develop staff, promoting leadership skills within the organization.