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CONNECTICUT ORAL HEALTH INITIATIVE, INC.
JOB ANNOUNCEMENT:  EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
 

     The Connecticut Oral Health Initiative, Inc. (COHI) is seeking a dynamic advocate with experience in the field of equity to lead our non-profit organization. The Executive Director will guide the staff and will provide a compelling voice in statewide oral health policy, coalition-building, policy research, and community education. The Executive Director will also be responsible for developing funds and managing the day-to-day operations of the organization. Candidates must have excellent networking, communication, and project implementation skills.

 

     The Executive Director will be expected to work collaboratively with the COHI staff, the Board of Directors, and community partners. This position will provide an invaluable opportunity to make a positive social impact on health equity in Connecticut and to build upon the strengths of a highly visible organization. 

 

About COHI:

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     It is the mission of COHI to fight for “oral health for all” by ensuring equity, increasing accessibility, and improving upon the quality of oral health care.  COHI’s vision is for all of Connecticut residents to have equal opportunity in receiving the services necessary to achieve a state of good oral health.  Using a systematic approach to advance this aim, COHI has directed statewide oral health advocacy efforts, collaborated with a wide array of stakeholders, served as an expert resource on oral health policy, analyzed and disseminated policy recommendations, and communicated the impact of structural as well as social factors on oral health status.  COHI has also promoted the integral relationship between good oral health and overall health and well-being.

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     To accomplish this important work, COHI currently has a budget of approximately $300,000 per year and a staff comprised of two full-time employees, including the Executive Director, contractors, and contract employees.

 

New Executive Director’s Challenges and Opportunities:

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     The new Executive Director will be charged with the task of expanding the way in which Connecticut residents and decision-makers understand the importance of oral health.  By driving private and public efforts that increase access to services, the Executive Director will take steps towards reducing oral health disparities.

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     Despite being a small nonprofit, COHI has the potential to grow in both size and influence. The Executive Director will have the opportunity to hire additional staff as needed in the near future.

 

The new Executive Director will:

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  • Speak with impact in public settings to enhance public understanding of oral health and to incite support of “oral health for all.”

  • Develop policies that promote oral health equity and reduce disparities.

  • Collaborate and build common purpose with a broad range of community partners involved in oral health, general health, community health, government policy, and education.

  • Continue to collect information to drive equitable, evidence based oral health recommendations, policies and service delivery practices.

  • Collect information to drive evidence-based policy recommendations.

  • Increase and diversify COHI’s funding base through grant-writing, fundraising, donor/member campaigns, government contracts, and other contracts.

  • Strengthen and expand COHI’s Board of Directors, so they can continue to be effective partners in the work of the organization.

  • Manage a small group of staff, interns, and volunteers.

  • Expand operations as funds become available.

  • Sustain COHI’s non-profit fiscal and compliance structures.

 

     With a strong foundation to build upon, the new Executive Director will explore new approaches, directions, campaigns and partnerships to further enhance COHI’s efforts towards strengthening “oral health for all”.

 

Desired Skills, Characteristics, and Competencies:

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The new Executive Director must:

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  • Demonstrate strategic thinking, innovation, vision, and action;

  • Have a passion for equity and justice;

  • Demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills;

  • Be able to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs to build a community of practice;

  • Have a good understanding of oral health policy and practice;

  • Exhibit organizational skills to manage, prioritize, and implement a complex list of projects;

  • Have the experience and skills to effectively lead and supervise staff and interns.

 

The new Executive Director must have a background in oral health and/or public health with some experience in administration. 

 

The new Executive Director must also have some experience in the following areas:

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  • Navigating public interest and willingness to act in support of equity-focused structures;

  • Applying for grants and building a donor base;

  • Running a non-profit business structure, supervising staff and contractors, managing a budget, and ensuring compliance with government and funder requirements.

 

Minimum requirements: A Bachelor’s degree with at least five years of experience. Preference will be given to candidates with relevant postgraduate degrees.

 

Location and Travel Requirements:

     COHI’s office is located in Hartford, Connecticut.  The Executive Director must be able to drive/travel to meetings and events as needed.

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Compensation Package:

     The expected salary range is $80,000 - $100,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Our benefits package includes retirement benefits (4% contribution), health coverage, and generous paid leave.

 

How to Apply for the Position:

 

  • Candidates must provide the following items:
     

    • Cover letter describing interest in and qualifications for the position;

    • Resume.
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  • Applications should be sent by email to Steve Eppler-Epstein at Steve@CTOralHealth.org .
     

  • The position is open until filled; we hope to begin reviewing applications in July 2024.

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For additional information about COHI, please visit www.CTOralHealth.org.

 

For additional information about COHI, please visit www.CTOralHealth.org.

 

The Connecticut Oral Health Initiative welcomes applications from people of all identities and backgrounds.  We work to build diversity, equity and inclusion within our organization, throughout our work, and in partnership and allyship with the communities we serve.

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