Note to prospective candidates: If you have questions before applying, please contact Capstone's executive search partner, Beth Gilpin Consulting, at careers@bethgilpin.com for a confidential exploratory call.

Capstone Community Action's Board of Directors is pleased to announce the launch of their search for a new Executive Director.

Application Process and Time Frame: The search committee will consider applications submitted through Friday, May 16, 2025, for interviews this spring and anticipates welcoming the new Executive Director by late summer.

Please click on this link to view the 4-page overview of the Executive Director Vision & Profile.

Capstone Community Action’s Board of Directors seeks candidates to advance its commitment to improving the lives of Vermonters in need by providing opportunities, education, and vital assistance. By breaking down the barriers that prevent people from thriving, we offer the hope people need, the dignity everyone deserves, and a better community for all. Visit capstonevt.org/ to learn more.

Capstone’s next Executive Director (E.D.) will lead Capstone’s committed and eminently talented staff into its next phase of impact serving the most vulnerable Vermonters in our service territory and ensuring our long-term sustainability during a time of great need and significant challenges. Capstone’s next Executive Director will advance the organization’s mission, vision, and programs by

• Leading the development and implementation of the organization’s strategic direction and growth.
• Sustaining and strengthening a culture that supports employee well-being and fosters engagement in serving individuals and families.
• Expanding and engaging with external partners and funders alongside organizational leaders, evolving our organization and capturing new opportunities during a time of change.
• With the leadership team and board, bolstering the strengths of the organization’s financial health and operations.
• Developing and deepening relationships across private, public, and non-profit sectors.

The board welcomes and encourages applications from both first-time and experienced Executive Directors who possess the qualifications listed below.

ABOUT CAPSTONE COMMUNITY ACTION

Since 1965, Capstone Community Action has supported individuals and families in Central Vermont in achieving stability and rising out of poverty. Guided by Capstone’s mission to create resilient households and communities and to advance justice in social, economic, and environmental policy, our programs and services focus on supporting individuals and families in making ends meet, building stronger families, creating warm and healthy homes, and opening doors to economic opportunity.

Our Structure Capstone is uniquely governed by a 12-member tripartite board of directors which comes from three diverse segments of the community: participant, private, and public sectors. The Board is also equally representative of the three regions of Capstone’s Service territory: Washington County, Lamoille County, and Two Rivers (Orange County & Towns in surrounding counties). Capstone’s board is responsible for agency direction, hiring of, partnership with and annual assessment of the ED, financial oversight, and policy.

The organization currently has 158 FTEs, with the majority delivering services in the four core program areas (weatherization, Head Start, Economic Development, Family and Community Services) and others distributed through the 3 administrative groups (Development and Communications, Finance, and Operations). Approximately one-third of Capstone’s workforce is unionized.

The organization is committed to upholding the values of dignity, equity, a holistic view of poverty, empowerment, partnership and collaborating in its workplace and communities.

OVERVIEW OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ROLE

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director has overall strategic and operational responsibility for Capstone Community Action staff, programs, and execution of its mission. They provide general supervision over the administration of the Agency’s business affairs, subject to the direction of the Board of Directors; serve as the Agency’s Chief Administrative Officer; and are responsible for hiring, supervising and discharging personnel. As a collaborative, caring, and inclusive leader, they foster a supportive and respectful workplace where staff can thrive and succeed.

Primary Responsibilities

• Vision, Mission and Strategic Planning
• Organizational Leadership and Management
  
• Board Partnership
• Financial Oversight
• External Relations and Advocacy
• Infrastructure and Operations
• Programs and Services
• Fundraising and Development
  

QUALIFICATIONS

Individuals who feel they offer a combination of leadership experience and knowledge that’s different from but comparable to what is listed below are encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from people who’ve worked in for-profit, non-profit and/or the public sector.

All candidates selected for interviews will have demonstrated a commitment to furthering Capstone’s mission, an understanding of the causes and impacts of poverty, and concern for the needs of low-income individuals and families.

Experience, Knowledge and Skills

• 7+ years of senior leadership experience at the organizational, departmental or program level with financial oversight of a $15MM+ budget and strategic planning in a regional or statewide organization.
• A track record of developing and implementing operational and funding strategies to lead an organization to its next stage of growth and stability.
• Experience navigating and advocating policies and the political landscape at the state-level, and familiarity and/or willingness to serve in a similar capacity at the regional and national level.
• Broad and in-depth knowledge of organization management, including the ability to manage complex budgets derived from various funding sources with diverse requirements, including grants, contracts, and philanthropic support; administration; applicable laws and regulations; grants management and compliance; board relations; and operations.
• An ability to establish and maintain trust with a high-performing leadership team through effective delegation and a well-developed understanding of the successes and challenges of delivering Capstone’s programs and services; helps weave together agency offerings in a unified approach to serving individuals and communities.
• Excellent organizational management skills with the ability to coach, manage, and develop individuals and teams in alignment with organizational values and mission.
• Ability to cultivate relationships with a board of directors, helping attract new board members, and developing strong personal and professional networks.
• Strong public/private sector fundraising experience with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders and cultures.
• Compelling communicator with effective listening, interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Action-oriented yet calm and reassuring during periods of heightened change and stress.
• Inspiring, entrepreneurial, visionary, and compassionate, with integrity and emotional intelligence.

WORK LOCATION AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

The ED primarily works at Capstone’s main office in Barre, Vermont, traveling to visit program locations, attend meetings, and represent the organization locally, regionally and nationally as described in the job description. On average, the Executive Director attends one evening meeting per week, occasional weekends to attend and/or help host events. And travels overnight 3-4 times per year to attend conferences. Reimbursement of home office expenses is provided in support of some flexible, remote work. A valid driver’s license and a reliable, insured vehicle are required.

TOTAL COMPENSATION

Base salary: A starting salary commensurate with the candidate's qualifications will be offered within a range of $145,000-$160,000, plus a generous benefits package.

Benefits: Medical insurance through BCBS BlueEdge and Dental through CIGNA. An H.R.A. and F.S.A, Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance and a 401(k) Plan with an employer match of 100% of employee contributions up to 3% and 50% of the next 2% of annual earnings. Paid vacation and sick time (both accrue at the rate of 8 hours/month), 14 holidays, and up to 4 personal days/fiscal year.

Capstone Community Action is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to equity and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and consider applications for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.