Executive Director

Company Description ACA, the American Correctional Association, is the oldest and largest international correctional association in the world, serving professionals across all disciplines within the corrections field. The organization promotes excellence in correctional operations, standards, and professional development. ACA supports agencies and individuals through accreditation, training, research, and advocacy that advance safe, humane, and effective correctional practices. Team members contribute to a mission-driven environment focused on improving correctional systems and outcomes worldwide. Working at ACA offers the opportunity to collaborate with diverse partners and influence policy and practice across the corrections profession.
Role Description The Executive Director is a full-time, on-site role based in Alexandria, VA, responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and operational management of ACA. This position oversees program development, accreditation and standards initiatives, membership services, conferences, and educational offerings, ensuring alignment with ACA’s mission and goals. The Executive Director manages the organization’s finances, budgeting, and resource allocation, and collaborates with the Board of Directors on governance, policy, and long-term planning. Day-to-day responsibilities include supervising senior staff, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture, representing ACA to external stakeholders, and building partnerships with correctional agencies, government entities, and allied organizations. The role also involves overseeing communications, advocacy efforts, and fundraising activities to strengthen ACA’s impact and sustainability.
Qualifications

• Demonstrated executive leadership experience in a nonprofit, association, public sector, or related organization, ideally within or closely aligned to the corrections or criminal justice field.
• Proven ability in strategic planning, organizational development, and change management, with a track record of advancing mission-driven goals.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, oversight of audits, and responsible stewardship of organizational resources.
• Experience supervising and mentoring diverse teams, fostering collaboration, and promoting an inclusive and equitable workplace.
• Excellent communication skills, including public speaking, stakeholder engagement, and relationship-building with boards, members, and external partners.
• Background in program and policy development, with the capacity to oversee accreditation, standards, training, and professional development initiatives.
• Ability to work effectively with a governing board, understanding governance best practices and supporting board committees and decision-making.
• Relevant academic credentials, such as a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, nonprofit management, or a related field; an advanced degree is preferred.
• Commitment to ethical practices, professional integrity, and continuous improvement in correctional systems and services.