Director of Advocacy & Victim Services  

Director of Advocacy & Victim Services  

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Associate Executive Director, the Director of Advocacy & Victim Services will be responsible for adult victim advocacy services and initiatives within the agency, in alignment with its mission and vision. This position will oversee program development, staff training, and supervision within the Advocacy Department, as well as organize programs, activities, and outreach initiatives to increase community participation and expand the agency’s reach. The Director will identify and advance strategic partnerships and opportunities to expand victim services. The Director will supervise Sexual Assault Advocates, Volunteer and Victims of Crime Coordinator, and oversee the agency’s 24/7/365 crisis response program. The Director will work collaboratively with the Associate Executive Director to advance and coordinate advocacy services, programs, and initiatives.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. In collaboration with the Associate Executive Director, implement policies, procedures, and programs for the Adult Advocacy Department in accordance with stated goals.
2. Provide day-to-day management, supervision, and leadership of the advocacy team and programs.
3. Responsible for overseeing the grant reporting process for advocacy and victim services, ensuring program deliverables are met in a timely manner,
4. Manage and oversee data collection and program evaluation.
5. Oversee the 24/7/365 Victims of Crime (acute rape crisis services) Helpline Sexual Assault/Law Enforcement Advocates, including direct supervision of statewide Sexual Assault Advocates (covering 7 days/week), Law Enforcement Advocates, and Victims of Crimes Response and Volunteer Coordinator.
6. Conduct ongoing assessments of client needs, ensure appropriate referrals, resources, and support are provided in a timely manner.
7. Foster effective collaboration and promote best practices with hospitals throughout Rhode Island.
8. Schedule, coordinate, and deliver training on relevant issues to increase hospital staff awareness of services and supports available to victims and survivors.
9. Collaborate with the Associate Executive Director and advocacy team to convene, develop, and advance the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART).
10. Provide direct advocacy services to victims of sexual assault through the SART program, including interviews, court accompaniment, and in-person meetings.
11. Provide coordination and back-up coverage for the Victims of Crime Helpline and calendar as needed.
12. Identify and develop strategic partnerships that increase the agency’s reach and overall community impact.
13. Actively participate in the VAWA Law Enforcement Curriculum Committee; lead and coordinate the agency’s participation in law enforcement trainings; and develop and facilitate trainings for law enforcement and community partners.
14. Communicate effectively with management and staff to support the continued successful operation of all programs.
15. Work in collaboration with the Development Team to identify and develop programs/projects in accordance with the strategic plan and mission of Day One.
16. Serve as a spokesperson for the agency with community groups and human services agencies through public speaking, written presentations, and participation in workshops.
17. Demonstrate awareness, respect for different perspectives, and a commitment to providing services to all individuals in accordance with applicable federal, state, and agency policies.
18. Hire, train, guide, and mentor staff. Analyze, monitor, and evaluate the performance of assigned staff; establish work priorities.

SKILLS AND ABILITES REQUIRED:

1. Ability to identify, develop, implement, promote, and evaluate programs, activities, and events that advance Day One’s mission and increase public awareness of the agency, its goals, and initiatives.
2. Thorough knowledge of the dynamics of sexual assault, domestic violence, and the criminal justice system.
3. Effective project management, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
4. Demonstrated and successful experience identifying potential program and/or engagement opportunities related to identified strategic goals.
5. Ability to build and maintain collaborative, long-term relationships, leverage opportunities to foster commitment and participation in organizational and community initiatives.
6. Ability to influence, leverage opportunities, and gain commitment and interest.
7. Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills.
8. Strong organizational skills.
9. Demonstrated effectiveness in outreach to constituent groups and local organizations.
10. Clearance through BCI and DCYF CANTS check required.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This is an on‑site position and includes work at the Day One office as well as in community‑based settings. Remote or virtual work for project‑specific assignments with supervisory approval,
• Position requires flexible hours and some evening and weekend hours
• Position requires some in-state travel and access to reliable transportation

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field.
• Five (5) or more years of experience working with victims/survivors, with demonstrated knowledge of legal and criminal justice processes.
• At least three (3) years of experience leading and supervising a team.
• Ability to recruit, train, develop, and support teams providing victim-centered, trauma-informed services.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with law enforcement, courts, human services, and community-based organizations.
• Completion of the Agency’s Acute Response (Rape Crisis) and Advocacy Training within the first six (6) months of employment.
• Curriculum Committee