WHAT WE DO For 50 years the San Diego Center for the Blind (SDCB) has empowered adults with visual impairments to maximize their independence. We offer tailored programs emphasizing strengths and skills, and an onsite storefront equipped with the latest technology and equipment. Our inclusive approach provides comprehensive vision rehabilitation services, including counseling, training, skill development, and community outreach and education. In addition, we provide free and safe transportation to and from our two locations in San Diego and Vista. With a commitment to accessibility and innovation, our facilities offer an innovative model that has been recognized nationally and internationally. Driven by a dedicated team of 23 staff and 7 volunteers, we are united by our shared passion for enhancing the lives of those we serve in San Diego County and beyond.

LEADERSHIP & CULTURE SDCB serves over 450 individuals each year and is led by an engaged and supportive seven-member Board of Directors, some of whom have served with the organization for nearly 25 years. Each member is deeply committed to our work, with many sharing personal connections to our mission and those we serve. The board is dedicated to helping carry the work forward and is eager to provide our new CEO with the space for autonomy and innovation. This role has been thoughtfully positioned to exemplify and expand on our supportive culture of communication, inclusivity, and growth. We are excited to partner with our next CEO to foster an environment where our team members are encouraged and supported to do their very best work.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary – $125,000 – $150,000 DEO/Neg.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Simple IRA after one year of employment, with a 3% employer match
• PTO: 10 paid days off, 12 paid sick days, 7 paid holidays as well as the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

LOCATION This is an onsite position, based in our San Diego office located at 5922 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92115. The CEO will also periodically travel to the Vista office located at 1385 Bonair Road, Vista, CA 92084.

POSITION SUMMARY This is an incredible time to join San Diego Center for the Blind, as we celebrate our 50th anniversary. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will assume overall responsibility for the organization, managing a $1.8 million annual operating budget, and two facilities in San Diego County. The CEO will use creative and innovative strategies to enhance and modernize SDCB’s operations, programs, and partnerships in ways that will diversify revenue, bolster growth, retention, and staff engagement, and increase our overall impact. The CEO will oversee a staff of 23, including seven direct reports: Controller, Director of the Vision Rehabilitation Program, Store Manager, Program Manager, two Administrative Assistants, and our Fleet Supervisor. This is a highly collaborative role, partnering with the board, staff, elected officials, community partners, and clients to execute SDCB’s strategic plan. The CEO will be a visionary leader, deeply connected to the community, and committed to understanding the true needs of our clients while working in partnership with SDCB’s stakeholders to provide strategic and innovative solutions.

Strategic priorities for the first year include:

• Begin identifying and cultivating new donors, and other funding sources. Expand fundraising opportunities, develop a long-term fundraising plan, and meet the annual fundraising budget.
• Spearhead initiatives to enhance our physical storefront, amplify awareness, and drive retail sales.
• Champion a culture of communication, inclusivity, and continuous growth.
• Immerse yourself in the rich history and evolution of SDCB, building meaningful relationships with stakeholders, staff, and volunteers.
• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at elevating our brand visibility, diversifying revenue streams, and enhancing our programs and services to maximize impact.
• Implement board development initiatives to enhance our governance capabilities; recruit new board members to diversify and amplify our impact.
• Expand our internal capacity and operations by strategically filling open positions.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the development and execution of diverse fundraising strategies for SDCB, encompassing campaigns, individual donors, planned giving, events, grant writing, and corporate sponsorships.
• Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors, uphold exemplary standards of governance, supporting board development, communication, recruitment, orientation, and continuous engagement.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting to facilitate informed decision-making by the board and staff.
• Manage finances and implement robust controls to maintain budgetary oversight across income, expenditures, investments, and physical assets.
• Cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, partner organizations, donors, and volunteers.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy to elevate the organization’s profile on local, state, and national levels.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of all projects and programs, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and financial sustainability.
• Foster internal relationships at all levels, promoting a collaborative and empowered work environment where every team member’s contribution is valued.
• Establish and review administrative procedures, policies, and standards to ensure ethical conduct, operational efficiency, transparency, and compliance.
• Maintain a forward-thinking approach to organizational planning, prioritizing future programming and sustainable growth initiatives.
• Act as the primary liaison for the two physical properties owned by SDCB, overseeing their maintenance and management.

BACKGROUND PROFILE

• A shared personal passion for helping others.
• Senior leadership expertise in strategic planning, board and volunteer engagement, fundraising, change management, team collaboration, talent development, and mentoring.
• Proven ability to build and support high-performing teams; demonstrated skills and experience in problem-solving in organizational settings and leading with an element of fun!
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including strong organizational, detail, and interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience building and cultivating external partnerships and relationships with the ultimate goal of growing an organization.
• Business acumen – formidable skills in budgeting, reporting, operations, and marketing; gives attention to both short-term and long-term objectives.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY, PLEASE CONTACT: Sarah Thompson, Senior Director, Blair Search Partners
1855 1st Ave., Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92101
sarah@blairsearchpartners.com