The Chief of Staff is a key executive role within the National Legal Aid and Defender Association (NLADA), directly supporting the President and CEO while closely collaborating with the Executive Management Team. This position is vital in the strategic execution and operational alignment of the NLADA's mission and values. The Chief of Staff ensures that the organization's strategies, structures, and culture are cohesively aligned and effectively implemented.Moreover, the Chief of Staff actively strengthens bonds and working relationships among staff, recognizing, and leveraging the power of intersectionality and diversity. This role is crucial in fostering an environment of shared collaboration and accountability, encouraging a culture where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into the organizational fabric.In this role, the Chief of Staff will act as a strategic advisor and chief administrator and champion the organization's commitment to inclusion, equity, and collaborative excellence. The Chief of Staff will be expected to lead by example, demonstrating a deep understanding of social justice issues and a commitment to driving systemic change. The Chief of Staff is also responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships with your external partners and members.The Chief of Staff ensures that the organization remains true to its core values while navigating the complexities of the nonprofit and trade association landscape, including compliance with federal lobbying laws and the effective management of la diverse and complex organization. POSITION RESPONSIBILITIESStrategic Leadership and Collaboration:Serve as a confidante, thought partner, and trusted advisor to the President and CEO.Partner with the Executive Management Team to manage and evolve the organizational structure and culture.Lead efforts in supporting and sustaining the organizational culture, with a strong focus on inclusion and racial equity.Supervise professional development opportunities and establish career paths for both attorneys and non-attorneys.Provide leadership on workplace culture, promoting employee engagement and high performance.Fiscal Oversight and Organizational Budget Management:Collaborate with leadership team to create and implement the annual budget, ensuring it reflects strategic priorities and operational needs.   Monitor financial resources, track expenditures, and report on budget performance, ensuring adherence to organizational policies and compliance with regulations.Conduct financial forecasting and trend analysis to support decision-making, identifying areas for cost savings and efficiency improvements.Organizational and Staff Development:In partnership with core staff, ensure effective management systems for developing, mentoring, and empowering a diverse workforce.Oversee Human Resources and Executive Management Team initiatives related to staff hiring, management, performance, compensation, professional development, and retention.Support core staff committees focused on compensation, professional development, and more.Establish policies, processes, and procedures to ensure consistency and continual improvement.Governance and Representation:Serve as liaison for NLADA board and coordinate support for Board committees and councils, promoting best practices in board governance.Assist in managing relationships with organizational partners and serve as a proxy for the President and CEO in key settings as needed.Support the President and CEO in projects with the Board, refining and implementing their agenda.Continuous Improvement and Thought Leadership:Promote transparent decision-making processes.Contribute to the organization’s thought leadership, managing self-reflection efforts for continuous improvement and learning.  
