The New Hampshire Public Defender (NHPD) is seeking an Executive Director to oversee its statewide operations. Reporting to the Board of Directors of NHPD, the Executive Director is the senior-most executive at NHPD and will lead and inspire a diverse team to uphold the highest standards of legal representation for clients throughout the state.

The Opportunity

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall management and operation of NHPD. They will lead and empower the NHPD staff to provide zealous representation of clients, overseeing all aspects of the organization, collaborating closely with the staff and the Board to ensure client-centered defense, managing the organization’s finances, acting as the primary liaison with external stakeholders, and strengthening the organization’s mission-driven culture.

The Executive Director must be a visionary leader who sees the big picture while also knowing how all decisions affect NHPD staff and clients. They must build trust with all internal and external stakeholders from interns to staff attorneys to state officials. Finally, the Executive Director must have a deep understanding of organizational design that recognizes the intense nature of NHPD’s work and the importance of balancing growth, clients, capacity and efficiency. The successful candidate will possess strong leadership skills and significant management experience.

Key responsibilities for the Executive Director include:

Leadership and Management:

• Program Leadership: Lead the New Hampshire Public Defender Program in delivering exceptional criminal defense services to indigent clients, ensuring that all legal services meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency. Drive continuous improvement in the methods of providing legal representation. Stay informed of changes in the criminal justice system and respond proactively to maintain high-quality client services.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the Board and staff to determine organizational priorities and build strategic plans.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including legislators, judicial officials, and community organizations, to advocate for the needs of indigent clients and enhance the organization’s visibility and impact.
• Mission-Resource Alignment: Balance the organization’s mission with the responsible management of resources and the well-being of employees to ensure sustainable and effective operations.
• Organizational Structure: Establish and maintain an effective administrative structure to support the program’s operational needs, focusing on continuous improvement and efficiency.
• Staff Supervision: Directly supervise deputy directors, managing attorneys, and senior staff, ensuring clear communication of duties and performance expectations.
• Training and Development: Oversee the development and implementation of comprehensive training programs for attorneys and staff, enhancing skills and competencies.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization, ensuring these values are reflected in hiring practices and workplace culture.
• Workplace Environment: Promote a safe and affirming workplace for all staff members, ensuring compliance with employment laws and best practices.
• Branch Office Oversight: Collaborate with Deputy Directors to oversee branch office operations, ensuring effective training, supervision, and resource allocation for managing attorneys and staff.
• Regulatory Compliance and Public Administration: Ensure adherence to legal and ethical standards in all operational aspects of NHPD. Work closely with oversight agencies and participate actively in public administration.

Financial Management and Funding: With Director of Finance, Finance Committee, and/or Board:

• Budget Planning: Develop and manage the program’s budget in collaboration with the Board and Finance Committee, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and compliance with funding requirements.
• Financial Oversight: Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting to the Board, Judicial Council, and legislative bodies, maintaining transparency in all financial operations.
• Audit and Financial Compliance: Supervise the Director of Finance in maintaining accounting operations, preparing for annual audits, and managing necessary insurance programs.
• Compensation and Benefits: Set equitable compensation structures for staff within budgetary constraints and engage in negotiations with the State Employees Association and other unions as necessary.

Advocacy and Relationship Management:

• Judicial Council Relations: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with the Judicial Council, providing program insights and negotiating contracts to benefit the program’s mission.
• Legislative Engagement: Actively engage with legislative committees, providing information and support that enhances the public defense system and supports the needs of the program.
• Union Relations and Negotiations: Foster collaborative relationships with union representatives to advocate for the rights of staff, negotiate fair working conditions, and develop initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction and program effectiveness.
• External Relations: Participate in committees and advocacy efforts related to public defense and criminal justice reform. 

Board Collaboration:

• Policy Recommendations: Propose necessary changes to program policies and procedures based on performance assessments and emerging needs.
• Board Support: Seek advice and support from the Board as necessary to fulfill the program’s mission and goals.
• Reporting: Regularly report to the Board of Directors on operational matters, financial performance, and the achievement of strategic goals.

LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR POSITION