Deputy Director, Programs — Inclusive Employment & Friendship

Best Buddies International; Denver (CO); Hybrid; USD 62,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Best Buddies International in Aspen is seeking a Deputy Director, Programs to oversee a caseload of Friendship chapters and participants pursuing competitive employment. This hybrid role combines chapter leadership with vocational coaching and strong community partnerships.

You will build relationships with chapter leaders, employers, and participants, ensure program compliance, track outcomes, and provide trainings, resources, and support to advance inclusion across friendship and employment

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or minimum of three years of relevant professional experience; Best Buddies program experience a plus.
• Comfortable engaging with individuals with IDD, including youth and adults, and addressing sensitive issues with empathy.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and facilitation skills; able to manage multiple priorities and achieve results from a variety of stakeholders.
• Basic project and time management skills, with strong initiative and self-assessment abilities.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office 365, social media platforms, and database systems.
• Willing and able to travel frequently, work evenings and weekends as necessary, and use a personal vehicle with applicable insurance.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of school- and/or community-based Friendship chapters, serving as the main point of contact for leaders and volunteers.
• Provide direct and consistent support to chapter leaders, including virtual and in-person trainings, resources, and guidance on Best Buddies policies and expectations.
• Track and report chapter participation, recruitment, and outcomes using online tools.
• Ensure compliance with program guidelines, including risk management, buddy pair matching, and leadership development.
• Facilitate opportunities for chapter members to engage in state and national events, such as Leadership Conference and Friendship Walk.
• Use a person-centered approach to help participants identify employment opportunities that match their skills, interests, and transportation options.
• Support participants through job development, placement, onboarding, and training, with the goal of fostering workplace independence.
• Maintain ongoing relationships with participants, guardians, employers, and vocational rehabilitation counselors.
• Educate participants on workplace safety and employee rights; provide resources for navigating benefits, such as WIPA or CWIC services.
• Provide travel training and identify natural workplace supports.
• Engage participants and volunteers in local, state, and national fundraising efforts.
• Support state fundraising events and provide program impact data for donor communications.
• Promote chapter and participant involvement in organization-wide campaigns and events.
• Build and maintain relationships with employers, volunteers, and community partners to promote Best Buddies' mission.
• Represent Best Buddies through public speaking, outreach events, and corporate or community trainings.
• Share "mission moments" and success stories for marketing, social media, and awareness campaigns.
• Ensure all program promotion adheres to Best Buddies brand standards.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in all program databases (Salesforce, etc.).
• Complete all required paperwork and reporting for Friendship and Employment programs, including those needed for funding agencies.
• Adhere to Best Buddies' policies, procedures, and professional standards for staff conduct, confidentiality, and communication.

Skills

Relationship-building

Communication

Facilitation

Project management

Microsoft Office 365

Database systems

Travel willingness

Empathy

Community outreach

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

Best Buddies International in Aspen is seeking a Deputy Director, Programs to oversee a caseload of Friendship chapters and participants pursuing competitive employment. This hybrid role combines chapter leadership with vocational coaching and strong community partnerships.

You will build relationships with chapter leaders, employers, and participants, ensure program compliance, track outcomes, and provide trainings, resources, and support to advance inclusion across friendship and employment