Executive Director

Executive Director

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

March 1, 2026March 25, 2026SanjoseUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Founded in 1933, the IRC has been dedicated to helping people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. The organization operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons. The IRC's mission is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 employees, the IRC is committed to delivering high-quality services to those in need, focusing on areas such as health, education, economic wellbeing, and safety.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director (ED) plays a pivotal role in advancing the IRC's mission in Oakland and San Jose, California. This leadership position is responsible for setting the vision and articulating the mission of the organization while managing the implementation of quality, evidence-based programming aimed at maximizing client outcomes. The ED will oversee the development of vital resources necessary for the operation of both national and local programs, which include refugee resettlement, employment services, behavioral health, economic empowerment, education, anti-trafficking initiatives, youth services, and immigration assistance. The role requires a strong presence in both offices, ensuring effective communication and collaboration between teams, and fostering relationships with local, regional, and national partners to enhance service delivery and resource development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Executive Director will be responsible for a wide range of duties including:
  • General Management and Leadership: Establishing and articulating the vision and strategy for the IRC locations; engaging with local leaders and communities; ensuring the development and implementation of effective strategies to improve client outcomes; leading the local strategic planning process; and managing team dynamics through effective hiring, supervision, and performance management.
  • Financial Management: Overseeing the annual budget development, reviewing operating budgets, and ensuring responsible financial management across programs.
  • Advocacy and External Relations: Leading local advocacy efforts, developing resource strategies, and maintaining positive public relations through effective marketing and communication strategies.
  • Partnership Development: Building and maintaining relationships with relevant sectors and refugee communities to address needs and support an enabling environment for refugees.
  • Operations Management: Ensuring compliance with IRC policies and effective communication with headquarters on operational issues.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree, with a preference for an advanced degree in a related field. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible work experience in social services or humanitarian assistance programs is required, with a strong preference for experience in direct service delivery in cross-cultural environments. Candidates should demonstrate strong staff management skills, program development experience, and a proven track record in advocacy. Authentic leadership qualities that reflect the IRC’s core values of service, accountability, integrity, and equality are essential. Additionally, candidates should have successful fundraising and grant writing experience, as well as financial management capabilities, including budget oversight.

Educational Background:
An undergraduate degree is required for this position, with an advanced degree in a related field preferred. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of managing complex social service programs and leading diverse teams effectively.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in social services or humanitarian assistance, with a strong emphasis on direct service delivery in cross-cultural settings. Experience in managing teams, developing programs, and engaging in advocacy is crucial. Candidates should also have a history of successful fundraising and grant writing, as well as experience in financial management and budget oversight.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages relevant to the communities served by the IRC is considered a valuable asset. This may include languages commonly spoken by refugee populations in the area, enhancing communication and service delivery.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and requires an in-person presence at the assigned primary office, with occasional travel to the other office. The role may involve after-hours demands and attendance at evening and weekend events as needed. The compensation for this position ranges from $137,925 to $153,247, depending on various factors including labor market conditions, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program.
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