Executive Director - Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority; CHEFA

Purpose of the Position

The Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) seeks a highly collaborative and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization during a critical period marked by sustained impact and forward momentum. With an ambitious strategic plan in place that positions CHEFA as the go-to resource for innovative financial solutions that enhance the quality of life in Connecticut, the Executive Director will provide strategic oversight and thought leadership to the Authority and its three subsidiaries: the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA), the Connecticut Student Loan Foundation (CSLF) and CHEFA Community Development Corporation (CHEFA CDC).

In this highly visible role, the Executive Director will serve as the face of the organization, engaging with a broad set of internal and external stakeholders including the Board, community partners, funders, elected officials, and regulators to ensure the Authority continues to fulfill its mission and vision.

• Partner with the Board on the strategic visioning of the organization during a period of growth and sustained impact.
• Provide strategic oversight of the Authority’s operations and overall fiscal management, including recommendation of the yearly budget for Board approval and prudent management of resources within budget guidelines in accordance with written procedures, bylaws and state statutes.
• Pioneer new programs and allocate fiscal resources for the Authority’s non‑profit clients and potential clients.
• Develop and maintain relationships with members of the State legislature, Governor’s Office, relevant state agencies, media, community leaders and other key constituents.
• Serve as the public face of CHEFA in all that it does and ensure a continued positive reputation for the Authority and its subsidiaries.
• Effectively engage with the Board of Directors of CHEFA, CHESLA, CSLF and CHEFA CDC, including all related committees.
• Ensure that the Authority’s services and solutions are of the highest quality, reach those in need, create positive impact and fulfill CHEFA’s mission and vision.
• Administer the Authority’s financing programs, including grants, and direct staff members while maintaining valuable relationships with financial market participants and developing new products to meet evolving market and client needs.
• Oversee the education finance programs that are part of CHEFA’s purview through its subsidiaries CHESLA and CSLF; serve as Executive Director of CHESLA and CSLF if appointed.
• Serve as Executive Director of CHEFA CDC and provide oversight of its development and operations.
• Provide leadership and foster a positive corporate culture and staff engagement with a focus on continuous improvement and industry best practices.
• Effectively manage staff in accordance with authorized personnel policies and procedures that fully conform with written procedures, bylaws, state statutes, current laws and regulations.
• Represent CHEFA with clients, potential clients, financial advisors, investment bankers, attorneys, government entities and other industry participants.
• Serve as an Officer of the Authority, the Money Purchase Pension Plan and the 457 Plan trustee.

• Undergraduate degree in Finance/Accounting or related discipline or equivalent; a Master’s degree in Business or Public Administration is preferred.
• Twelve years of progressive experience with a minimum of seven years providing staff leadership, operational oversight, and fiscal management with a strong emphasis on public financing.
• Superb leadership skill coupled with strong business acumen and ability to manage, lead and supervise a talented, passionate, and dedicated team.
• Strategic mindset that will further enhance an organization that is already well‑run and fiscally sound.
• Credible leader capable of inspiring confidence and serving as the public face of CHEFA to key external constituents.
• Ability to balance day‑to‑day operations with overarching strategy to anticipate future needs and options for the organization.
• Demonstrated experience in leading people, providing professional development…