What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director position at NAMI Texas?
Organization: NAMI Texas
Location: Austin, Texas (Hybrid)
Reports to: Board of Directors
Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt
About NAMI Texas
NAMI Texas is a leading statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Texans affected by mental illness. As the Texas affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI Texas advances education, advocacy, support, and public awareness to build better lives for individuals and families impacted by mental health conditions. With a strong public profile, deep policy engagement, and a network of local affiliates across the state, NAMI Texas plays a critical role in shaping Texas’s mental health landscape.
Position Overview
NAMI Texas seeks a dynamic, visionary, and mission-driven Executive Director to lead the organization during a pivotal period of growth and influence. This is a high-profile leadership role requiring a strategic thinker, skilled communicator, and collaborative executive with demonstrated success in nonprofit leadership, public policy, and stakeholder engagement.
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the organization and is responsible for setting strategic direction, leading statewide advocacy efforts, strengthening organizational capacity, and serving as the primary public spokesperson for NAMI Texas.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Partner with the Board of Directors to set and execute a long-term strategic vision aligned with NAMI Texas’s mission and values
- Provide transparent reporting and guidance to the Board on organizational performance, risks, and opportunities
- Lead organizational planning, evaluation, and continuous improvement initiatives
Public Policy & Advocacy
- Serve as the lead advocate and voice for NAMI Texas in the Texas Legislature, state agencies, and public forums
- Build and maintain strong relationships with policymakers, government leaders, and advocacy coalitions
- Advance policy priorities that improve mental health systems, access to care, and equity across Texas
External Relations & Public Presence
- Act as the primary spokesperson for NAMI Texas with media, donors, partners, and the public
- Strengthen the organization’s brand, visibility, and reputation statewide
- Cultivate strategic partnerships with foundations, corporations, healthcare systems, and community organizations
Organizational & Financial Management
- Oversee day-to-day operations, staff leadership, and organizational culture
- Ensure strong financial stewardship, including budgeting, fundraising, and compliance
- Lead and support a high-performing senior leadership team committed to equity, inclusion, and excellence
Fund Development
- Drive diversified revenue strategies including individual giving, grants, sponsorships, and major gifts
- Engage donors and funders as partners in advancing NAMI Texas’s mission
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, advocacy, healthcare, or public policy organization
- Proven success leading complex organizations with multiple stakeholders
- Strong understanding of mental health systems, public policy, or social impact advocacy (Texas experience strongly preferred)
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and lived-experience-informed leadership
- Experience working with or reporting to a governing board
Preferred Attributes
- Recognized leader with credibility in public policy, nonprofit, or mental health spaces
- Experience serving as a public spokesperson or media representative
- Ability to navigate political, legislative, and community environments with diplomacy and integrity
Compensation & Benefits
NAMI Texas offers a competitive executive compensation package commensurate with experience, including benefits and opportunities for professional growth.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in leading NAMI Texas. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.