POSITION SPECIFICATION
President & Chief Executive Officer
Stamford, CT
ABOUT LAUREL HOUSE
Laurel House helps individuals and families achieve and sustain mental health to lead fulfilling lives. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, founded in 1984 and based in Stamford, Connecticut. Laurel House advances social inclusion, early intervention, and recovery through evidence-based programs, including Supported Education, Supported Employment, Thinking Well (Cognitive Remediation), Community Support Services, and Social Rehabilitation workshops. These programs help participants build skills to live more independently, at no cost to eligible Connecticut residents, and for a modest hourly fee for those who do not income qualify. Resources to Recover (rtor.org), a free service of Laurel House, connects individuals and families with expert mental health treatment and support. For more information, please see the Annual Report and FY26 Fact Card.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
Laurel House seeks its next President and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) to lead Laurel House, Inc. and Friends of Laurel House, Inc. Reporting to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the CEO will oversee an approximately $3 million operating budget and guide the organization’s strategy, financial health, operations, and program quality.
The CEO will lead and develop the senior team, strengthen evidence-based programs and Resources to Recover (rtor.org), and serve as Laurel House’s primary ambassador and fundraiser. This hands-on leader will build relationships and resources that expand access to services and support long-term sustainability.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Governance
- Guide the overall performance and strategic direction, aligning organizational priorities and resources with Laurel House’s mission.
- Lead, mentor, and develop the senior team, setting clear goals, supporting professional growth, and fostering an inclusive culture of collaboration, trust, accountability, and recognition.
- Support strong governance and provide the Chairman and Board with regular updates on program, operational, and financial performance, emerging needs, and challenges.
Financial & Operational Management
- Oversee the approximately $3 million operating budget, monitor financial performance, and report regularly to the Board to ensure responsible stewardship and long-term sustainability.
- Strengthen internal systems, technology, and processes to improve efficiency, support staff, and ensure quality services.
- Ensure compliance with funding and regulatory requirements, and respond to changes in funding, community needs, and public health conditions.
Fundraising & External Relations
- Serve as Laurel House’s primary ambassador and lead fundraising efforts, building visibility and communicating its mission and impact.
- Drive fundraising, deepen donor relationships, and secure major gifts, grants, Annual Appeal contributions, and public funding contracts, working with the Development Manager and Development Associate, and engaging volunteers.
- Strengthen relationships with community leaders, behavioral health organizations, public agencies, and policymakers to expand partnerships and support.
Program Excellence & Community Impact
- Guide the quality, development, and expansion of evidence-based mental health rehabilitative programs that advance social inclusion, early intervention, and recovery.
- Evaluate program data and participant outcomes to guide improvements and demonstrate impact to the Board and funders.
- Advance rtor.org and its Resource Specialists, using technology and digital communications to connect individuals and families with treatment and support.
- Build community partnerships to increase access to care.
ABOUT THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate is a versatile, mission-driven leader with strong business and operational judgment, financial acumen, and genuine commitment to mental health recovery. Approachable and hands-on, they will build trust, learn Laurel House’s evidence-based programs, and communicate its impact with clarity and confidence. They will balance day-to-day organizational needs with long-term goals.
Key professional qualifications include:
· Leadership & Experience: At least five years in an executive or senior leadership role in business, behavioral health or a nonprofit, preferably with experience leading an organization that delivers programs or services, versus a Foundation.
· Financial & Operational Management: Strong financial acumen, with experience managing budgets, analyzing results, and allocating resources to support effective programs and financial sustainability.
· Fundraising & External Relations: Success cultivating private funding, including major gifts, donations and Foundation grants, building relationships with funders and community partners, and competing for public funding.
· Communication & Relationship Building: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to inspire staff, volunteers, donors, and partners with understanding of the cause of recovery.
· Programs & Analytics: Experience in program development, the ability to analyze program data and outcomes, and a commitment to understanding evidence-based practices and client needs.
· Technology & Digital Engagement: Technologically savvy, able to leverage rtor.org and social media to expand access, share impact, and engage individuals and families.
· Core Values & Mission Alignment: Integrity, resilience, and an inclusive approach to developing staff. An inquisitive learner and creative problem solver who adapts to changing needs and brings a deep commitment to Laurel House’s mission.
EDUCATION: Master’s degree in Business, Social Work, Public Health, or a related field a plus.
LOCATION: Based in person at Laurel House Resource Center, 1616 Washington Blvd., Stamford, CT.
COMPENSATION: Salary range is $185,000 to $205,000, commensurate with experience, with bonus opportunity.
TO APPLY: Please submit a resume and thoughtful cover letter in confidence.
Laurel House is an equal opportunity employer. Laurel House and rtor.org are committed to the advancement of social justice and racial equity and to making mental health services accessible to all.