Associate Director (Feeding Programs)

Position Summary:

The Associate Director (Feeding Programs) oversees St. Vincent de Paul Louisville’s feeding initiatives, including the Open Hand Kitchen (OHK) and the Food Pantry. This position ensures the consistent delivery of nutritious meals and groceries to individuals and families in need through effective program management, volunteer coordination, food procurement, and community partnerships. The Associate Director supervises the OHK Manager and Food Pantry volunteers, maintains compliance with all food safety regulations, and plays a key role in advancing SVDP’s mission to house, feed, and support those in need with compassion and dignity.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Supervision:
Provide leadership and supervision for the Open Hand Kitchen Manager and Food Pantry volunteers to ensure effective daily operations of SVDP’s feeding programs.

Procurement and Inventory:
Oversee the acquisition of food through Dare to Care, grocery store rescues, and individual donations to support all feeding programs. Manage the receiving, sorting, and storage of perishable and non-perishable goods in compliance with food safety and inventory protocols.

Reporting and Data Management:
Maintain accurate and timely records as required. Oversee monthly reporting to Dare to Care and SVDP leadership and provide quarterly updates to the Programs Committee and Board.

Relationship Management:
Build and sustain strong, collaborative relationships with partners, donors, and volunteers to support the success and visibility of SVDP’s feeding programs.

Team Development:
Foster a positive, mission-driven work environment that encourages communication, teamwork, and professional growth among staff and volunteers.

Food Safety:
Ensure compliance with all Dare to Care, state, and federal food safety standards. Enforce proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures across all feeding operations.

Facility Upkeep:
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment in the pantry, kitchen, and storage areas. Coordinate maintenance and repair of equipment through the work order process.

Vehicle Operation:
Oversee the use and maintenance of SVDP delivery vehicles, including box trucks and vans, and ensure that all drivers possess proper licensure and training.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Mission-driven, compassionate, and committed to serving others with dignity and respect.
  
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills with the ability to motivate and guide staff and volunteers.
  
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of food procurement, inventory control, and food safety regulations.
  
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for engaging with diverse groups including partners, donors, and volunteers.
• Proactive and adaptable, with a hands-on approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
  
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and performing physical tasks related to food handling and distribution.
  
• Ability to represent SVDP with professionalism and credibility in community settings.
• Collaborative approach to working across departments and with leadership to advance organizational goals.

Reporting to this Position: Open Hand Kitchen Program Manager and Food Pantry Volunteers.

Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, public administration, food service management, or a related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of experience in food program operations, community feeding initiatives, or related nonprofit work.
  
• Knowledge of Dare to Care or similar food bank partnership requirements preferred.
  
• Experience supervising staff or volunteers in a service-oriented environment.
• Certification in food safety or willingness to obtain upon hire (e.g., ServSafe).
• Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle insurance REQUIRED.
• Must get Hepatitis A vaccination
• Submit to TB test annually
• Ability to pass pre-employment background and drug screening.
• Commitment to SVDP’s mission of serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, poverty, addiction, or crisis.

Why Work With Us?

At SVDP, we believe in more than just a job! We offer our team a sense of purpose and pride in serving others. As part of our mission-driven team, eligible employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and growth.

Benefits Include:

Available Immediately Upon Hire:

• Paid holidays
• Free meals provided daily in our Open Hand Kitchen
• Free on-site parking
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – free counseling services
• Thrift store employee discount
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program
• Mileage reimbursement (if applicable)
• Phone reimbursement (if applicable)

Available After 30 Days of Employment (Following the First of the Month):

• Employer-paid Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Employer-paid Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Employer-paid Life Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Voluntary Accident
• Critical Illness & Cancer
• Additional Voluntary Life
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA) – SVDP matches $ for $ up to $500/single ($20.83 per pay) and $1000/Family ($41.66 per pay)

Available After 90 Days of Employment (Following the First of the Month):

• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• • SVDP matches up to 3% after one year of service (hours must be met)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• • Begins accruing on your first day and is available after 90 days
• Opportunity to discuss flexible schedule

Available After 6 Months of Employment:

• Access to Advanced Education and Training
• • Clinical supervision support for employees in the Social Work/Human Services field pursuing higher credentialing
• Eligibility to apply for internal job opportunities

SVDP is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. As part of our commitment to equal opportunity and affirmative action, we actively encourage applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. If you require an accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at hr@svdplou.org.