Executive Director

Upper Valley Haven

White River Junction, Vermont

THE SEARCH

The Upper Valley Haven (or the Haven), a multifaceted social services agency serving the Upper Valley region of Vermont and New Hampshire, seeks a passionate, relational, and strategic Executive Director (ED). The ED will possess a closely held belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every human life and will demonstrate a commitment to investing in community members with the most significant economic and social needs so that they may achieve independence and self-sufficiency.

The Haven serves over 10,000 people annually via a series of low-barrier services, including emergency shelter, food access, community outreach, children’s programs, and other critical support. The agency provides these essential frontline services while simultaneously seeking to address the root causes of poverty and homelessness through case management, supportive housing, community partnerships, and advocacy. The Haven operates 365 days per year, never charges for its services, and welcomes all who enter its doors as equals, respecting their dignity and accepting them with compassion and without judgment.

The Haven’s FY2026 operating budget is $5 million, plus $1.3 million in donated food. It employs 58 full-time and part-time employees, including a leadership team of five, and is governed by a 15-member board of directors. The agency’s well-maintained headquarters house two residential shelters (one for families and one for adults), a community food market, and offices for administrative and other program staff. With the recent completion of its $9.5 million capital campaign, the Haven will begin in earnest the construction of its third guest facility, a two-story, 9,000-square-foot all-season shelter and housing resource center that will dramatically expand its service delivery.

The next ED of the Haven will inherit an organization that has grown significantly over the past decade and continues to be recognized for high-quality, outcomes-oriented, and community-driven programs. To be successful, the ED will be adept at creative thinking and problem solving while managing everyday practicalities inherent to a nonprofit like the Haven. The ED will be a clear and diplomatic communicator, an unwavering advocate for the organization and Upper Valley residents, and a capable fundraiser. Further, the ED will excel at building strong relationships with staff, board, donors, government officials and policymakers, community partners, the public, and individuals served. The ED will lead with empathy, acknowledge the impact of direct service work on staff, and create a trauma-informed culture that prioritizes psychological safety and open communication. Under its next leader, the Haven will adapt to meet the ever-growing need for housing and food access in the Upper Valley and will strive to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse population.

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS

Salary Range: The base salary for the role is $150,000. This is a full-time position with all the benefits provided to full-time staff at the Haven. The total compensation package will vary based on the competitive employment market, the candidate’s experience, and the strength of the candidate’s demonstrated track record of leadership and accomplishment. 

Location: This position operates from the Haven’s administrative offices in White River Junction, VT. Occasional remote or hybrid work is acceptable.

Commitment: This position requires minimal travel, including local meetings and occasional trips to state capitals in Montpelier, VT, and Concord, NH, for government relations and participation in service coalition meetings.

APPLICATIONS, INQUIRIES, AND NOMINATIONS

All nominations, inquiries, and applications (including a resume and a two- to three-page letter of interest responding to the opportunities and challenges outlined in the full position profile) should be directed in strict confidence to the search team below. Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted. To be assured full consideration, please submit materials by Monday, June 30, 2025.

Tatiana Oberkoetter, Phillip Petree, Angelo Alexander, Ryan Smillie

Isaacson, Miller

Upper Valley Haven Executive Director Search

The Upper Valley Haven is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse workplace environment that is welcoming and safe for all. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.