Director of NYC Programs

STRIVE is a national leader in workforce development solutions, empowering individuals to discover their best future selves through innovative, evidence-based career training and holistic, lifelong support. STRIVE partners with employers, funders and community organizations to close gaps in workforce needs and help local economies thrive. Founded in East Harlem, NY, in 1984, STRIVE has grown from its roots to now offer programs in locations across the country.

For more than 40 years, STRIVE has been a catalyst for economic change and prosperity in underserved communities. Our tuition-free skills and job readiness training, one-on-one support and lifetime personal coaching prepare students for careers in high-growth industries such as healthcare, construction and logistics. With a proven pathway to possible, 80% of STRIVE students graduate, 76% attain employment and 70% retain employment long-term.

Looking to the future, STRIVE has embarked on an ambitious ten-year growth plan to increase its impact in more locations nationwide, aiming to serve up to 10,000 individuals each year by 2033.

We meet individuals where they are, providing free programs tailored to adults 18+, including those impacted by the justice system. At STRIVE, there is always a path forward.

See why STRIVE has been the pathway to possible for more than 40 years in our 3-minute mission video.

STRIVE is seeking a results‑driven, social justice‑minded Director of NYC Programs (Program Directo) to lead our New York Program operations. This role is responsible for providing strategic leadership and day-to-day oversight across three key program teams, as well as the business development and student recruitment teams. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in workforce development and a strong track record of working with justice-impacted youth, the reentry population, and sector-based employment programs.

The Program Director will be accountable for strategic planning, program implementation and oversight, budget and resource management, performance monitoring and evaluation, compliance and risk management, and funder engagement. This individual will play a critical role in ensuring the sustainability and impact of our New York programs, while also supporting the continued growth and alignment of our broader national efforts.

We are looking for a dynamic leader who can drive program excellence, foster high-performing teams, and build strong partnerships to support New Yorkers in achieving long-term economic mobility.

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all STRIVE New York programs, including Career Path, Future Leaders, and Fresh Start, ensuring program effectiveness, alignment with STRIVE’s mission, and achievement of performance outcomes.
• Hire, train, supervise, and support a diverse, high-performing staff across the program, business development, and recruitment teams, fostering a culture of accountability, equity, collaboration, and professional development.
• Oversee the implementation and continuous improvement of program models, including career readiness, sector-based training, job placement, and long-term retention strategies using disciplined data analysis, coaching, and staff development.
• Manage program budgets and resources effectively to meet STRIVE’s overall performance targets of 80% graduation, 75% placement and ensure sustainability, working closely with the finance team and senior leadership.
• Lead strategic planning efforts in collaboration with STRIVE’s leadership team to identify opportunities for program expansion, innovation, and integration across service areas.
• Build and maintain strong…