Nonprofit Executive Director

The Company

CHEFA bolsters the capabilities and broadens the impact of Connecticut nonprofits by helping them access low-cost debt capital from the tax-exempt public and private debt markets and provides equity capital in the form of grants. As a conduit bond issuer, CHEFA underpins a critical social service infrastructure system that cares for the health, well-being, and education of Connecticut residents.

Purpose of the Position

The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) seeks a highly collaborative and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization during a critical period marked by sustained impact and forward momentum. With an ambitious strategic plan in place that positions CHEFA as the go-to resource for innovative financial solutions that enhance the quality of life in Connecticut, it needs a forward-thinking Executive Director who can provide strategic vision and leadership to enhance the organization and the positive impact it has on the state.

The Executive Director will have the opportunity to provide strategic oversight and thought leadership to its three distinct subsidiaries: the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA), the Connecticut Student Loan Foundation (CSLF) and CHEFA Community Development Corporation (CHEFA CDC). In this highly visible role, the Executive Director will serve as the face of the organization engaging with a broad set of internal and external stakeholders including the Board, community partners, funders, elected officials, and regulators.

Essential Functions

- Partnering with the Board on the strategic visioning of the organization during a period of growth and sustained impact
- Providing strategic oversight of CHEFA's operations and overall fiscal management
- Pioneering new programs and allocating fiscal resources for CHEFA's non-profit clients
- Developing and maintaining relationships with members of State legislature, Governor's Office, and relevant state agencies
- Serving as the public face of CHEFA in all that it does
- Administering the authority's financing programs, including grants
- Providing leadership and fostering a positive corporate culture

Requirements and Experience

- An undergraduate degree in Finance/Accounting or related discipline; Master of Business or Public Administration degree preferred
- Twelve years of progressive experience with a minimum of seven years providing staff leadership, operational oversight, and fiscal management with a strong emphasis on public financing
- Superb leadership skills coupled with a strong business acumen
- A strategic mindset and ability to serve as the public face of CHEFA
- Strong interpersonal skills to develop and maintain relationships with legislators at federal and state levels
- Solid financial and operational background with experience with credit, public, and bond markets

CHEFA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer.