The Women’s Opportunities Resource Center (WORC), a pioneering organization founded in 1993, seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director (ED) to lead its mission of enabling low-income individuals, primarily women and their families, to achieve financial self-sufficiency. WORC integrates business lending, self-employment training, and incentive saving into an asset-building approach. The organization, based in Philadelphia and serving surrounding counties, is a certified U.S. Treasury Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Intermediary and 7(a) lender. WORC has received numerous awards including the 2001 Presidential Award for Excellence in Microenterprise Development: Poverty Alleviation, from the U.S. Dept of Treasury.
The incoming ED will drive the organization’s strategic initiatives, foster partnerships, and ensure the delivery of high-quality programs, with a heavy initial focus on enhancing internal operations. This role is pivotal as WORC enters a new growth stage, with a comprehensive FY24-28 Strategic Plan guiding the way. The ED will work closely with the organization’s founder, who will stay on as Executive Chair of the Board, the Board of Directors, the management team, and key external stakeholders.
Candidate Profile:
Ideal candidates for the Executive Director (ED) position at WORC are seasoned leaders with over eight years of experience in community development, particularly within financial institutions or related non-profits; an understanding of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) is preferred. Highly desirable candidates will have at least four years of executive leadership experience, adeptly managing teams of 10+ staff members, and possess a proven track record in operations, fundraising, business development, and strategic planning/execution. With a post-secondary or master’s degree in a relevant field, or equivalent professional experience, favorable candidates will have strong financial acumen, a shared leadership approach to management, high EQ, and exceptional communication skills. They are proven relationship builders, able to foster meaningful connections with diverse stakeholders, and are committed to driving organizational growth and impact for underserved communities. The ideal candidate is also well-versed in navigating regulatory landscapes and market trends, with a passion for promoting financial self-sufficiency among low-income individuals and families.
Professional Characteristics: Required / Desired Skills
- Demonstrated ability to inspire and lead teams, operationalize the organization’s strategic direction, and drive organizational growth and impact.
- Extensive experience in community development, preferably within financial institutions or non-profit organizations focused on economic development, asset building, and financial inclusion.
- Proven track record in executive leadership, managing middle management, and leading organizations with a staff of 10 or more.
- Experience overseeing and enhancing day-to-day operations- including developing and implementing strategic and operational plans and SMART goals.
- Skill in cultivating relationships with funders, identifying and securing new revenue sources, and achieving successful fundraising outcomes.
- Strong understanding of financial services, budgeting, financial management, operations, and compliance within community and economic development contexts. Experience in Savings and Loan Policies and Processes.
- Experience leading with an equity lens, ensuring innovative approaches to access to capital and promoting inclusive growth.
- Exceptional skills in fostering trusting and meaningful relationships with staff, board members, donors, stakeholders, partners, and peers.
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, capable of preparing and presenting information to diverse audiences.
- Willingness to be available for nights and weekends to attend community events, conferences, and networking opportunities, with approximately 30% local travel required.