Executive Director

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

The Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging (P4A) is a statewide nonprofit membership organization that represents Pennsylvania's 52 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), serving all 67 counties across the Commonwealth. Since 1977, P4A has advanced policies, programs, and partnerships that support older adults, caregivers, and communities by promoting excellence in aging services and advocating for high-quality, community-based care.

P4A works collaboratively with state and local leaders to strengthen Pennsylvania's aging network through advocacy, public policy, professional development, leadership, and innovation. The association supports its member agencies by providing education, technical assistance, and best practices while championing legislation and initiatives that enable older adults to age with dignity, independence, and choice in their homes and communities.

As a mission-driven organization, P4A is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, respect, and service. Employees have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of older Pennsylvanians by working alongside dedicated professionals who are passionate about advancing person-centered services, strengthening communities, and improving the quality of life for older adults and their families throughout the Commonwealth.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

The Executive Director functions as the principal leader of P4A and provides strategic, financial, operational, and advocacy leadership in support of the 52 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director advances the Association’s mission by leading public policy initiatives, strengthening the statewide AAA network, ensuring financial sustainability of the association, overseeing grants and contracts, and implementing Board approved strategic priorities. The Executive Director serves as the primary representative and spokesperson of the Association before state and federal agencies, the General Assembly, members, partners, and the public.

The Executive Director has two direct reports: Director of Finance & Operations and Director of Policy & Programs.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Governance

• Serve as Executive Director of the Association.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement multi-year strategic plans.
• Advise the Board on policy, financial condition, risk management, and organizational performance.
• Prepare and present regular reports to the Board regarding strategic progress and fiscal status.
• Provide leadership and strategic oversight for two wholly owned subsidiaries of P4A, ensuring effective operations, alignment with organizational and statewide priorities and responsiveness to the needs of older adults and the area agencies on aging.
• Ensure compliance with applicable nonprofit governance standards, federal and state laws, and internal policies.
• Ensure the Association's organizational structure, programs, and resources remain responsive to the needs of member Area Agencies on Aging and support the delivery of high-quality services and outcomes for older adults throughout the Commonwealth.

Public Policy & Advocacy

• Serve as chief policy strategist and spokesperson for the Association and its membership.
• Develop and advance legislative and regulatory priorities approved by the Board.
• Testify before legislative committees and represent the Association in meetings with policymakers and government officials.
• Provide strategic oversight of contracted government affairs, lobbying, and advocacy partners.
• Ensure legislation and regulatory changes affecting AAAs and older Pennsylvanians are monitored.

Financial Stewardship & Sustainability

• Develop and oversee implementation of a sustainable business model that promotes organizational growth and aligns with strategic priorities.
• Oversee the preparation of the annual budget for Board review and approval.
• Monitor fiscal performance and ensure sound financial management and internal controls.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities aligned with Board-approved objectives.
• Ensure transparency in financial reporting and organizational performance.

Grants & Contract Oversight

• Lead the strategic pursuit, negotiation, and administration of grants and contracts benefiting the Association and its membership.
• Ensure compliance with grant and contract requirements.
• Delegate operational grant development and reporting responsibilities as appropriate while maintaining executive oversight.

Organizational & Staff Leadership

• Provide executive oversight of staff operations and performance management.
• Establish clear performance expectations aligned with organizational goals.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional development.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and human resource best practices.

Membership & Network Support

• Strengthen and support the statewide network of AAAs.
• Facilitate forums, communication, and training to enhance coordination and shared problem-solving.
• Keep members informed of legislative, regulatory, and funding developments.

External Relations & Partnerships

• Represent the Association in statewide and national forums.
• Develop strategic partnerships with public and private stakeholders.
• Coordinate public relations activities to promote the Association’s mission and goals.

Other Duties

• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to take on additional responsibilities as directed by the Board of Directors.
• Participate in professional development and leadership activities relevant to the Association’s mission.
• Adhere to the agency’s policies and procedures, including those related to confidentiality.
• Maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and security of organizational, employee, and client information in accordance with agency policies and applicable laws.
• Use agency technology systems, databases, and communication tools in accordance with organizational standards and security protocols.
• Attend required training, meetings, and professional development activities.
• Maintain a professional and collaborative work environment.

Work Environment

• Primarily office-based, with flexibility for hybrid or remote work depending on organizational needs.
• Standard office hours (Monday–Friday), with occasional extended hours as required.
• Must have secure, high-speed internet access and a suitable workspace when working remotely.
• Use of agency technology systems and tools is required in accordance with organizational policies.
• Periodic in-person meetings, travel, and event participation required as needed.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Social/Behavioral Sciences, Public Policy, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and executive leadership experience.
• Minimum six to eight (6-8) years of senior leadership experience, including strategic planning, financial management, advocacy, and staff supervision.
• Demonstrated experience with multi-source funding (grants, contracts, public funding) and budget oversight.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Industry / Sector Knowledge

• Experience working with boards (nonprofit or for-profit) and membership-based organizations or the equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state regulations affecting aging services and nonprofit operations.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

This is a full-time, exempt, hybrid-remote position with P4A. The executive office is located at 525 S. 29th Street, Harrisburg, PA. The role is based in Harrisburg and requires regular statewide travel for meetings, site visits, and advocacy work.

The starting salary range for the position is $165,000 - $180,000 depending on experience. Benefits include but are not limited to: medical, prescription drug, vision, and dental coverage; flexible spending plan, paid time off, employee assistance program (EAP), life insurance, long-term disability insurance, commuter benefits; SEP IRA plan.

TO APPLY

P4A Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging has retained Dunleavy & Associates as its partner for this search. In order to be considered, please submit your resume or CV and a cover letter here.

EEO/AAP Statement
P4A Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.

AT-WILL Employment Statement
Employment with P4A is at-will. This means employment may be terminated by either the employee or P4A at any time, with or without cause or notice. Nothing in this job description or any other policy shall be interpreted to modify this at-will relationship except through a written agreement signed by the Board President.

Funding Contingency Statement

This position is funded in whole or in part through contracts and/or grants and is contingent upon continued funding availability.