Director of Programs
Position Title: Director of Programs
Classifications: Full-Time, Salary, Exempt
Salary Range: $90,000 – 120,000
Organization Mission and Summary: SOS Meals on Wheels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit committed to fostering the independence and dignity of older adults by reducing food insecurity and isolation, with daily nutritious meals, friendly visits and connection to support services.
We produce and deliver 2,000 meals daily to homebound seniors living in Oakland, Hayward, San Leandro, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, Fremont, Newark and Union City. As advocates for senior citizens, our mission is to provide a nutritious meal delivered by a friendly face that also acts as a wellness check, allowing seniors to remain independent in their homes for as long as safely possible.
Position Summary and Accountability: The Director of Programs is a senior leadership team member, reporting directly to the Executive Director. This role is responsible for overseeing client services, managing program operations, and ensuring program compliance and quality. The Director of Programs supervises the Client Services Manager (San Leandro office) and the Program Manager-South (Fremont Office). Collaborating closely with the Director of Operations, the Director of Programs ensures seamless coordination between program delivery and logistics.
The Director of Programs plays a critical role leading a client-centered approach to all SOS Meals on Wheels services, improving the health and welfare of the seniors we serve. As part of the Leadership Team, this position is responsible for identifying opportunities to enhance existing services and develop new programs that improve the quality of life for our clients. Expanding programs and services will require securing additional resources; therefore, the Director of Programs will work closely with the Executive Director and the Directors of Development, Advocacy, Operations, and Finance to plan and implement growth initiatives.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
Leadership and Program Oversight (40%):
• Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for all program activities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Provide leadership and expertise on evolving trends in Senior health and wellbeing, and the SOSMOW client experience.
• Supervise, mentor, and support the Client Services Manager and Program Manager, fostering professional growth and high performance.
• Collaborate with the Director of Operations to align program goals with operational logistics, maintaining efficient workflows and ensuring timely meal delivery.
• Monitor and evaluate program performance, using data to inform improvements and future planning.
Client Services and Program Development (40%):
• Oversee client intake, assessment, and case management processes to ensure services meet client needs and expectations.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to maintain high standards of service delivery, confidentiality, and client satisfaction.
• Lead initiatives to expand and enhance programs, including partnerships, culturally responsive services, and medically supportive meal offerings.
• Ensure that Program development and strategy account for potential or existing funding gaps, while maintaining focus on changing client needs.
• Collaborate with external agencies and funders to advance programmatic goals and secure resources.
Compliance and Reporting (10%):
• Ensure all program activities comply with Older Americans Act requirements and other relevant regulations.
• Maintain accurate records in client databases and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders. • Work with the Directors of Operations and Development, and Executive Director to ensure program metrics are met and funding requirements are fulfilled.
Community Engagement and Advocacy (10% - In collaboration with Director of Advocacy):
• Represent SOS Meals on Wheels at community meetings, coalitions, and outreach events to promote services and build partnerships.
• Advocate for senior needs, contributing to the organization’s mission of reducing food insecurity and isolation.
• Provide leadership for volunteer engagement, training, and retention in collaboration with the Volunteer Department
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in social work, Public Administration, Gerontology, or related field ideal but not required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in nonprofit program management, including supervisory responsibilities preferred.
• Proven ability to manage diverse teams and multi-faceted programs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with client databases (e.g., Salesforce).
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and current insurance.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience working with older adults or in senior nutrition programs.
• Knowledge of public funding regulations, including Older Americans Act compliance.
• Familiarity with nonprofit operations and program evaluation methods.
• Multilingualism a strong plus.
Benefits
• 14 paid Holidays, including a floating holiday for your birthday.
• 3 weeks paid time off each year.
• 80 hours paid Sick Leave each year.
• 50% Health Insurance premiums paid (for qualifying plans).
• 100% Vision and Dental Insurance premiums paid.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Honeybee financial wellness and coaching benefit program.
To apply, please send an email with the subject line “Director of Programs”, including a cover letter with a summary of qualifications and with a resume - preferably as PDF documents - to charlie@sosmow.org.