Nonprofit Associate Director – Client Services

CMC Recruiting; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

Our client, a mission-driven nonprofit serving San Mateo County, seeks an experienced Nonprofit Associate Director – Client Services to lead multiple Client Services locations, oversee staff development, budgets, and program outcomes. Reporting to VP of Programs and Services, this role balances people leadership with operational excellence and community engagement.

The role requires coordinating across locations, ensuring high-quality client services, monitoring metrics, and maintaining

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or related field required.
• MSW preferred.
• Minimum six years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit human services or related fields.
• Minimum three years of supervisory or management experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop Case Managers, Supervisors, and Administrative staff.
• Oversee daily operations across multiple Client Services locations and manage departmental budgets.
• Develop and evaluate new programs and service initiatives; monitor KPIs and outcomes.
• Build relationships with community organizations and represent the organization at outreach events.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies and federal/state/local regulations; maintain client records and program quality.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Budget management

Communication

Program oversight

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work / related field

MSW preferred

Job description

Our client is a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to serving vulnerable individuals and families throughout San Mateo County. For more than 50 years, they have provided essential services that help community members achieve stability through food assistance, housing support, case management, healthcare access, and other critical resources. They are seeking an experienced and compassionate leader who is passionate about serving others while developing high-performing teams and strengthening community impact.

Position Overview\"

The Nonprofit Associate Director – Client Services will provide strategic and operational leadership for multiple Client Services locations, ensuring high-quality, client-centered service delivery across the organization. Reporting to the Vice President of Programs and Services, this individual will oversee program operations, lead and develop staff, manage departmental budgets, monitor program outcomes, and collaborate with organizational leadership to enhance services and drive continuous improvement.

This role is ideal for an experienced nonprofit leader who enjoys balancing people leadership, operational excellence, and community engagement while making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable populations.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Staff Development:

• Lead, coach, and develop Case Managers, Supervisors, and Administrative staff
• Conduct performance coaching, employee development, and regular one-on-one meetings
• Partner with Human Resources on employee relations, recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and succession planning
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and service-focused team culture

Program Operations:

• Oversee daily operations across multiple Client Services office locations
• Ensure consistent, high-quality client services and operational excellence
• Manage departmental budgets, monitor expenses, and support financial planning
• Develop and evaluate new programs and service initiatives
• Monitor key performance indicators, program outcomes, and operational metrics

Community Engagement & Strategic Leadership:

• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations and service providers
• Represent the organization through outreach events and community partnerships
• Collaborate with executive leadership on strategic initiatives and program development
• Identify opportunities to improve client outcomes, operational efficiency, and service delivery

Compliance & Client Services:

• Ensure compliance with agency policies and applicable federal, state, and local regulations
• Monitor documentation standards, client records, and program quality
• Support case consultation, client referrals, and resolution of complex client concerns
• Maintain a client-centered approach while ensuring accountability and operational consistency

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field required
• Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) preferred
• Minimum six years of progressive leadership experience within nonprofit human services, social services, behavioral health, housing, homelessness services, or related community organizations
• Minimum three years of supervisory or management experience
• Strong leadership, coaching, employee development, and conflict resolution skills
• Experience managing budgets, program operations, and performance metrics
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining professionalism and sound judgment
• Knowledge of San Mateo County community resources is a plus
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
• Base salary range of $90,000–98,000 depending on experience
• Opportunity to join a collaborative, mission-driven organization making a meaningful impact throughout San Mateo County
• Leadership role with the ability to influence programs, develop staff, and strengthen services for the community