Executive Director

The Executive Director develops, articulates, and communicates the organization’s vision, mission, and plans to both internal and external audiences. The Executive Director is also the chief executive officer of QVS and is responsible for the effective management of all of the organization’s affairs. This person ensures the effective supervision of QVS staff and provides leadership in building and maintaining a motivated and effective QVS staff team; creates strong relationships and partnerships with donors and other stakeholders; and garners the financial support needed to accomplish the QVS mission.

QVS began in 2012 in order to provide an opportunity for young adults to engage with Quaker spirituality in relation to social change and community living. The organization maintains this opportunity with programs in four cities (Boston, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Portland, OR; and Twin Cities, MN). In the summer of 2025 we will offer our first summer program in Philadelphia, PA. QVS is still experiencing aftershocks from the COVID-19 pandemic regarding recruitment and retention of Fellows. In addition, we find ourselves in a time of transition regarding the needs and cultural norms of young adults. We are looking at ways to increase revenue and decrease spending and anticipate this will be a significant focus of the next Executive Director.

The Executive Director works closely with QVS board members, officers, and committee members. Major policy and budgetary decisions are made by the QVS Board in partnership with the Executive Director. The Executive Director effectively balances their own personal gifts of visioning, discernment, and planning with deep listening, careful consultation, and support for the growth and exercise of similar leadership gifts and skills by many others, both volunteers and staff.

The Executive Director of QVS must be either a member of the Religious Society of Friends or an active participant in a Quaker meeting or church. This person must demonstrate an ability to manage a team with strong collaborative leadership skills. This person must demonstrate a commitment to equity, diversity, and justice, and have the ability to relate well to diverse constituents, including Friends across theological branches. Excellent written and oral communication skills are needed along with a professional demeanor, self-motivated work habits, flexibility, and strong organizational and people management skills.

Although this position is remote, the Executive Director travels regularly across the USA for work, 8+ trips per year.