Demo

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Gateway Foundation
Aurora, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 12/31/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 3/6/2026
Who is Gateway Foundation?

Gateway Foundation, Inc. is a national non-profit dedicated to helping individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Established in 1968, Gateway provides essential tools and knowledge for recovery, positively impacting hundreds of thousands of lives. Operating through its Community Services, Corrections Divisions, and Corporate Headquarters, the organization is recognized for innovative, effective treatment approaches and maintaining high standards.

Why join us?

Consider joining our team, where your impact can be truly meaningful. Our organization focuses on delivering high quality clinical services as a recognized leader in evidence-based treatment proven to get results. By joining our team, you'll have the chance to provide essential services, all while working for an organization that values you and aims to be an employer of choice. You can expect to be part of a vibrant culture that emphasizes teamwork and professional growth, while embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion for every individual in every community. When you join us, you have the opportunity to find both personal and professional fulfillment by aligning your career with your values.

Gateway Foundation is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director to lead our Aurora program. This critical leadership role will oversee operations, ensure the highest standards of care, and drive impactful programs that support individuals on their recovery journey. If you are passionate about making a difference and have the expertise to lead in a mission-driven environment, we invite you to join us in shaping lives and strengthening communities.

Executive Directors are responsible for:

  • Lead and oversee clinical and administrative operations across assigned facilities, ensuring high-quality, innovative, and comprehensive services.
  • Develop and execute strategic short- and long-term plans aligned with organizational goals.
  • Prepare and manage capital and operating budgets; monitor expenditures and resolve variances.
  • Recruit, retain, and manage a multidisciplinary team including clinical, medical, and support staff.
  • Oversee HR functions including hiring, performance evaluation, training, and compliance with personnel policies.
  • Ensure compliance with Gateway policies, accreditation standards, and state/federal regulations.
  • Drive continuous improvement in service quality and utilization through data review and corrective actions.
  • Research funding opportunities and lead program marketing and proposal development.
  • Represent Gateway in community functions, meetings, and conferences to foster strong public relations.
  • Provide coaching and professional development to direct reports; support goal setting and conflict resolution.
  • Maintain safe, clean, and welcoming physical facilities.
  • Collaborate with Gateway leadership to plan services and resolve operational challenges.
  • Pursue ongoing professional development and create annual plans to enhance management competencies.

Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Health Administration, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible management experience in behavioral healthcare, preferably substance use treatment.
  • Proven ability to lead and oversee complex business operations, including budgeting, policy development, and staff management.
  • Strong communication skills to effectively lead teams, build relationships with community and funding partners, and deliver formal presentations.
  • Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills to manage operations, resolve conflicts, and develop strategic goals and procedures.
  • Demonstrated ability to motivate and manage multidisciplinary teams in a dynamic environment.

Physical Requirements:

  • Communication abilities necessary to answer telephone, and convey information and directions (critical).
  • Proofreading and checking documents for accuracy, and reading reports, on a regular basis (critical).
  • Ability to drive vehicle to various locations in assigned geographic area (essential).
  • Ability to use a keyboard and video display terminal to receive, retrieve, and/or audit information and data on a regular basis (essential).

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Benefits at Gateway Foundation:

Health and Wellness:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
  • Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums
  • Employee assistance programs focused on mental health

Financial Wellbeing:

  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match
  • Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Gateway
  • Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Flexibility and Time Off:

  • 18 paid time off days per year – accrual rates increase with years of service
  • 9 paid company holidays
  • Work-life-balance

Personal Development:

  • Training & Development Programs
  • Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year
  • eLearning access to online courses that provide CEU’s and job-related training
  • Clinical Supervision: Formal and informal guidance

Gateway Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets. Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here.

Salary : $5,250

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