Program Director

Position Summary: The Program Director supports an organization providing employment choice to individuals with disabilities by developing, refining, and implementing programs and activities, which provide opportunities for higher quality of life by using and enhancing worker skills to further enterprise in Kansas City. The Program Director is responsible for managing current programs and committing to program expansion by developing new initiatives while ensuring operating efficiency. They are a key member of the management team and work closely with other senior staff to achieve the organization’s strategic goals, the position accomplishes this through competence, respect; constructive, energetic style guided by the mission and objectives of the company.
 
Overview
Southeast Enterprises is a packaging and assembly enterprise that employs individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (Associates) specializing in custom hand assembly, inspecting, collating, kitting, and packaging services. We continue to build on a strong 50-year reputation for quality products and dependable service at our 36,000 square foot supported employment environment. SE also provides several community-based work and volunteer opportunities and vocational training. SE offers a competitive salary, supportive and value-driven culture, high-energy work environment, and excellent benefits for full-time candidates.
 
Position reports to: Chief Executive Officer
FLSA Classification: Full-time, Exempt
Compensation: based on experience (low $58k – mid $72k)
Hours of Operation: 7:30AM - 4:00PM, hours may vary
Location: Kansas City, MO
 
Duties

• Establish processes and interventions that set Southeast Enterprises apart by providing a multi- approach to employment, including training, support and skill enhancement to skills-based employees tailored to their disability, ensuring they meet quality standards and production goal while engaging in safe work practices and appropriate workplace behavior, make appropriate recommendations for each employees placement out of the training program
• Partner with senior leaders to align programs with Southeast Enterprises’ short and long-term strategic goals, lead a cross functional team to define and implement programs, including social emotional curriculum embedded into the workday
• Manage Developmental Disability Services Jackson County  – Eitas contracts and DESE requirements, including developing, implementing, and monitoring systems for record keeping, service, provision, budgeting, and reporting
• Develop training programs for staff that enhance their ability and knowledge in working with individuals with disabilities, especially within the autism spectrum
• Establish standardized intake processes, including skills, assessments, and placement, develop individual goals, support in progress reporting as well as procedures and intervention and de-escalation of employee conflicts, provide timely and meaningful communication for guardians, family members and referral source case managers.
• Ensure that written, documentation and productivity records are kept current, according to established regulatory requirements, maintain accurate service delivery records, and comply with grant funding record keeping requirements.
• Create social development programs for skills-based employees that include parent/family involvement, managing volunteers, and formal methodology.
• Provide leadership aligned with organization’s strategic plan that intentionally cultivates a culture of service excellence through customer experience, employee engagement and development, and operational accountability – empowering teams with clear expectations, supportive leadership, and continuous improvement practices that drive high performance and productivity.
• Lead, direct, and provide oversight of 2 to 3 program coordinators or case managers.
• Attend meetings with partners and others on behalf of Southeast Enterprises and perform other duties as needed

• Bachelor’s Degree minimum, Master’s Degree preferred, in related Field (e.g. SPED, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Applied Behavior Analysis)
• At least 5 to 7 years of progressive responsibility in related field or program management for an organization providing employment or programming services to individuals with disabilities

• Leadership – Must be honest and sincere. Demonstrate ability to lead and inspire teams by setting clear direction, building trust, and fostering accountability. Skilled in motivating others, developing talent, and guiding teams through change while maintaining alignment with organizational mission, values, and performance expectations.
• Strategic Thinking – Ability to analyze complex information, identify emerging trends and opportunities, and translate insights into clear strategies and actionable plans. Skilled at balancing long-term vision with practical execution while aligning initiatives with organizational priorities.
• Results Driven – Proven ability to set measurable goals, prioritize initiatives, and deliver outcomes that advance organizational objectives. Demonstrates persistence, accountability, and disciplined follow-through to achieve high-quality results within established timelines and resources.
• Business Acumen – Strong understanding of organizational operations, financial drivers, performance metrics. Ability to interpret data, assess financial and operational implications, and make informed decisions that strengthen sustainability, efficiency, and overall organizational performance compliant with government regulations.
• Decision-Making – Ability to make sound, timely decisions using data, professional judgement, and input from relevant stakeholders. Skilled at evaluating risks, considering multiple perspectives, and selecting practical solutions that support organizational goals and accountability.

• CPR and First Aid
• Gentle-Teaching approach to better serve the individuals SE employs
• Abuse and Neglect
• Seizure First Aid
• Other as determined        

• Immediately eligible for retirement plan, then eligible for 3% company match on 6% of employee investments after one year employment
• Paid Time Off -- includes10 holidays, vacation (starting at 80 hours, progressing to 160 hours based on tenure), personal time (16 hours of discretionary time) and sick time (80 hours per year)
• 100% company paid medical coverage and life insurance – employee pays $0 for premium
• Supplemental insurance available