Executive Director, Operation Dignity

Position Title: Executive Director

Reports to: Board of Directors

Position: Full-Time, Onsite, Exempt.

Location: Oakland, California

Salary: $190,000 - $225,000 annually

About Operation Dignity

Operation Dignity is a distinguished nonprofit organization based in Oakland, California, dedicated to serving the most vulnerable individuals facing homelessness. Established in 1993 by a veteran who experienced the hardships of homelessness firsthand, the organization has grown into a trusted pillar in Alameda County, offering a comprehensive range of services including emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. With a commitment to fostering dignity, respect, and self-sufficiency, Operation Dignity works tirelessly to transform lives through innovative outreach, robust community partnerships, and evidence-based support services.

The organization’s multifaceted approach integrates vital elements such as case management, employment assistance, and wellness programs, empowering veterans and others in crisis to rebuild their lives. As a leader in the fight against homelessness, Operation Dignity’s mission is to restore hope and provide a clear pathway to long-term stability, ensuring that no one is left behind. Prospective team members are invited to join an environment that champions excellence, equity, and compassion, contributing to meaningful change in the community. For more information on their impactful work and career opportunities, please visit Operation Dignity.

The Role

The Executive Director at Operation Dignity is a hands-on leader responsible for shaping our strategic direction and ensuring our programs make a real difference. This role is all about balancing big-picture vision with day-to-day operations—from building partnerships with community groups and government agencies to securing funding and guiding our team through challenges. The ideal candidate will have a clear strategic focus, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to drive change in a dynamic environment.

At Operation Dignity, the Executive Director is the face of our mission. This role demands a creative problem solver who isn’t afraid to get involved on the ground, working directly with staff and stakeholders to turn ideas into action. If you’re passionate about making a lasting impact on the lives of homeless veterans and others in need, and you thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced setting, we invite you to join our dedicated team.

Responsibilities  

Strategic Vision & Leadership

• Define and uphold Operation Dignity’s core values, vision, and mission.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to align strategic insights with long-term goals.
• Drive initiatives to expand and evolve programs for increased social impact.
• Develop and execute the organization’s strategic plan, ensuring mission alignment and measurable outcomes.
• Foster innovation, advocacy, and partnerships to enhance service delivery and expand organizational reach.

Staff & Organizational Development

• Oversee the recruitment, hiring, and retention of a diverse team of professionals and volunteers.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment that encourages professional growth.
• Implement continuous training and performance management systems to support staff success.
• Strengthen internal communication and unify staff around a shared vision.
• Ensure leadership development opportunities and build a high-performing team culture.

Fundraising & Resource Development

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for Operation Dignity, effectively communicating its mission and achievements.
• Build and sustain strategic partnerships with public agencies, community organizations, and other key stakeholders including coalitions and joint ventures.
• Engage the community in fundraising efforts, increasing donor awareness and support.
• Secure and manage government contracts, grants, corporate partnerships, and individual giving initiatives to sustain financial growth.

Financial & Operations Management

• Develop and manage an annual budget in partnership with the Chief Financial Officer.
• Oversee fiscal practices to ensure responsible allocation and use of resources.
• Strengthen financial oversight and grant management processes to ensure sustainability and compliance.
• Expand permanent supportive housing initiatives and optimize operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and reporting requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Experience:

• Senior leadership role in a mid-size organization serving veterans, homeless individuals, or disadvantaged populations.
• Demonstrated success in driving organizational growth and developing strong relationships with Board members.
• Proven experience leading a nonprofit or social service organization, setting strategic direction, and fostering a collaborative and mission-driven culture.
• Deep understanding of Housing First, Harm Reduction, trauma-informed care, and veteran-specific housing programs (HUD-VASH, VA funding).
• Demonstrated success in securing government grants, major gifts, and philanthropic funding while managing multi-million-dollar budgets.
• Experience managing government contracts (HUD, VA, city/county grants) and ensuring regulatory compliance in program delivery.
• Strong ability to represent the organization in public forums, build coalitions, and advocate for policy changes impacting homelessness and veteran services.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, trauma-sensitive environment for diverse populations, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities.
• Expertise in overseeing supportive housing programs, case management services, and operational efficiency improvements.
• Ability to navigate high-pressure situations, de-escalate conflicts, and provide leadership in trauma-affected environments.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage with board members, funders, community partners, and staff effectively.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field (required). 10+ years of leadership experience in the nonprofit, government, or social services sectors.
• Advanced degree (preferred).

Ideal Core Competencies:

• A Strong Communicator & Relationship Builder – Capable of fostering strong relationships across staff, board members, funders, and community partners.
• Experienced in Nonprofit Management & Fundraising – Proven success in leading nonprofit organizations, securing funding, and managing government contracts.
• Strategic & Visionary – Able to assess challenges, identify opportunities, and drive long-term growth.
• Adaptable & Decisive – Skilled at making thoughtful, informed decisions in complex situations.
• Mission-Driven & Community-Focused – Passionate about serving veterans and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Additional Information About the Position

This full-time role is based in Oakland, California, with occasional travel within Alameda County and surrounding areas as needed.

Operation Dignity offers a comprehensive benefits package and competitive compensation. 

Operation Dignity has retained the services of Charity Search Group to coordinate the search for this position. To apply, please complete this online application. If you have questions or need accommodations, please contact Mariya Yurukova at mariya@charitysearchgroup.com ​or visit www.charitysearchgroup.com

Operation Dignity is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,  religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance,  gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.