Senior Manager, Transitions Program

About the role

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.

This role is based out of the Rochester office with the expectation to work in Buffalo 2 days per week.

Responsibilities

• Steer expansion plans for the office’s Pre-ETS program, including identifying new funding opportunities and serving as the main point of contact for funding agencies
• Build out long-term plans for growth and staffing
• Lead increased community engagement in Pre-ETS programs by stewarding community and corporate partners to increase volunteer engagement and opportunities for Work-Based Learning
• Work closely with local and national staff to integrate national partnerships into local initiatives
• Directly teach and support adolescents/young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to maximize their independence through skill development and pre-vocational training
• Oversee all related volunteer management, including intake and processing of all Pre-ETS referral documentation and ongoing data management to reflect program impact
• Perform responsibilities professionally, in collaboration with other team members in accordance with Best Buddies core values, policies, practices, program funding and applicable regulatory agency guidelines
• Recruit community members to sit on committees
• Act as staff lead, when assigned, for a program or fundraising event
• Manage a specific aspect of a local program or fundraising event or business
• Assist with grant research and writing
• Plan, assist and/or implement awareness campaigns for Best Buddies Day and Month, and Disability Employment Awareness Month

Requirements

• 5 years of experience or employment in job coaching, counseling, or special education; or other related experience working with persons with disabilities
• OR Bachelor’s Degree in a related field such as rehabilitation, counseling, social work, psychology, or education from an accredited college or university plus 2 years of professional experience
• Best Buddies experience a plus
• Must be adaptable and able to quickly and effectively develop and balance multiple relationships and get results from a variety of people
• Strong presentation, facilitation, project and time management skills
• Strong written communicator who pays close attention to detail; demonstrates a strong initiative, drive for results and self-assessment skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Access to an automobile with applicable insurance
• Employment is contingent upon accreditation by governing state agency
• Must be comfortable engaging with people with IDD, meeting new people and addressing sensitive issues
• Must be comfortable with frequent local travel, use of personal cell phone, and work evenings and weekends as necessary