Executive Director –

Reports To: Board of Directors

Location: Rome, Georgia

Organizational Overview

The William S. Davies Homeless Shelters, Inc. is a community-based nonprofit organization serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Rome and Floyd County, Georgia. Founded in 2003 and named in honor of Reverend Bill Davies, the Shelters provide safe housing, compassionate care, and supportive programs that promote dignity, empowerment, and long-term stability.

The Organization Operates:

• A Men’s Shelter (16 beds)

• A Women’s Shelter for single women and women with children (8 single women & 4 rooms for women with children)

• A holistic Counseling Program offering free, in-house mental health services

• A Food and Farm Program providing nutritious food, workforce development, and community engagement through a working farm

Guided by the belief that all people have sacred worth, are on a restorative journey, and deserve a welcoming community, the Davies Shelters strive to end homelessness one person at a time in Rome, Georgia.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) provides visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for all programs and services of The Davies Shelters. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED ensures mission alignment, financial health, organizational excellence, and meaningful community partnerships. The ED serves as the public face of the organization—advocating for guests, inspiring stakeholders, and cultivating a culture of compassion, accountability, and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategic Management:

• Lead the development and execution of a long-term strategic plan that advances the organization’s mission and impact.

• Maintain a strong, transparent partnership with the Board of Directors; provide timely reports, insights, and recommendations.

• Build a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven culture among staff, volunteers, and community partners.

• Promote the organization’s guiding principles and act as its chief ambassador in the community.

• Support and empower program directors and staff to deliver effective, trauma-informed care and measurable outcomes.

Program Oversight:

• Supervise and evaluate all programs: Men’s Shelter, Women’s and Children’s Shelter, Counseling, and Farm initiatives.

• Ensure that services meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and effectiveness.

• Establish systems for program assessment, data collection, and outcome reporting.

• Encourage innovation and continuous improvement in all service areas.

Financial Management:

• Oversee the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Board Finance Committee.

• Ensure sound fiscal management, accurate reporting, and adherence to nonprofit accounting best practices.

• Manage organizational resources with transparency, efficiency, and integrity.

Fundraising & Development:

• Design and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy in coordination with the Board of Directors Fundraising Committee that includes individual giving, grants, corporate partnerships, and special events.

• Cultivate relationships with donors, partners, faith-based organizations, foundations, and community stakeholders.

• Lead grant writing, develop indicators for reporting, and compliance processes.

• Foster a culture of philanthropy across the organization—engaging the Board, staff, and volunteers in development efforts.

Community Engagement & Advocacy:

• Serve as a visible, trusted advocate for people experiencing homelessness.

• Build mission-aligned partnerships with local agencies, government entities, and coalitions.

• Represent The Davies Shelters at public events, media opportunities, and civic forums.

• Strengthen volunteer engagement and community outreach initiatives.

Personnel & Organizational Development:

• Recruit, mentor, and retain a diverse and talented team.

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture.

• Ensure compliance with HR policies and employment laws.

• Invest in professional development and staff well-being.

Governance, Administration & Compliance:

• Maintain organizational compliance with all legal, ethical, and contractual requirements.

• Oversee facilities management, risk mitigation, and safety protocols.

• Develop and update policies, procedures, and documentation consistent with nonprofit best practices.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s in Social Work, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or related field strongly preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible leadership in nonprofit or social service organizations, preferably with experience addressing homelessness, poverty, or housing instability.

• Proven success in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.

• Strong financial management and budgeting skills.

• Demonstrated experience working with a Board of Directors and managing a diverse staff.

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Commitment to trauma-informed, person-centered service delivery.

• Integrity, compassion, and a deep alignment with the mission and values of The Davies Shelters.

• Must successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening.

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary is commensurate with experience. The Davies Shelters offers a competitive compensation package including paid time off, and professional development opportunities.