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LSV Seeks a Visionary, Mission-Driven Executive Director

Executive Director — Legal Services Vermont (LSV)

Location: Vermont (statewide; primary office in Burlington, VT)
Website: legalservicesvt.org

Legal Services Vermont (LSV) seeks a visionary, mission-driven Executive Director to lead Vermont’s statewide civil legal aid organization into its next chapter. This is a rare opportunity to guide a nationally respected nonprofit at a pivotal moment—refreshing its mission and positioning the organization for long-term impact in advancing access to justice.

About Legal Services Vermont

Legal Services Vermont is the statewide grantee of the federal Legal Services Corporation and works in close partnership with Vermont Legal Aid to deliver comprehensive civil legal assistance to low-income and vulnerable Vermonters. LSV provides legal advice and representation in housing, consumer, public benefits, and family law; operates the statewide legal services helpline; manages a nationally recognized legal information website; and coordinates a statewide pro bono program.

LSV is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) law firm providing free services to clients across Vermont. The organization has a $1.8M+ annual budget and a staff of 13 based in Burlington.

Together with its partners, LSV helps more than 25,000 Vermonters each year and works toward systemic solutions that strengthen communities statewide.

The Opportunity

The Executive Director will build upon a strong foundation established by current leadership and lead LSV through strategic growth and transformation. This leader will combine operational excellence with bold vision strengthening financial sustainability, deepening partnerships, and expanding LSV’s reach and influence across Vermont and nationally.

This is an opportunity for a dynamic leader who is passionate about social and racial justice and committed to ensuring that all Vermonters regardless of income have meaningful access to justice.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic and Organizational Leadership

  • Provide overall leadership and direction for the organization, including supervision, recruitment, retention, and professional development of staff
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, equity, and continuous learning
  • Lead strategic planning and guide organizational evolution in response to emerging needs and opportunities

Fundraising and Financial Stewardship

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including major gifts, foundation and government grants, and annual giving
  • Diversify and expand revenue streams to ensure long-term financial sustainability
  • Partner closely with the Board of Trustees to build a strong culture of philanthropy
  • Oversee budgeting, financial systems, compliance, and fiscal controls

External Relations and Advocacy

  • Serve as an ambassador and public spokesperson for LSV across Vermont and nationally
  • Strengthen relationships with foundations, government agencies, law firms, donors, and community partners
  • Maintain LSV’s leadership role among state and national legal services organizations, including collaboration with the Legal Services Corporation and peer agencies
  • Coordinate closely with Vermont Legal Aid to ensure a unified and effective statewide legal services delivery system

Ideal Candidate Profile

We recognize there are many paths to leadership. Candidates will be considered broadly and holistically. We are especially interested in individuals who demonstrate most of the following:

  • Deep commitment to social and racial justice
  • 7–10+ years of progressive leadership and management experience, preferably in nonprofit, legal, policy, or related sectors
  • Proven success in fundraising, including foundation, government, and major donor development
  • Experience with financial oversight, budgeting, and compliance with grants and contracts
  • Strategic agility—ability to anticipate trends, navigate change, and align organizational direction accordingly
  • Demonstrated ability to recruit, develop, and retain a high-performing and diverse team
  • Strong communication skills and comfort serving as a visible, trusted public leader

A law degree is welcomed but not required. LSV values leadership, vision, and commitment to mission above any single credential.

Why This Role Matters

At a time when housing instability, economic insecurity, and systemic inequities continue to challenge vulnerable Vermonters, access to legal representation can be life-changing. The Executive Director of LSV will play a critical role in narrowing the justice gap, strengthening Vermont’s legal safety net, and shaping a more equitable future.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience within the range of $115,000 - $125,000. LSV offers excellent benefits including generous leave, high-quality family health insurance, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) plan—plus the camaraderie of a team dedicated to justice for Vermonters.

How to Apply

LSV has partnered with Dan Lyons from The Richards Group and Scott McArdle of McArdle & Associates to guide this important search. To apply, send your resume and cover letter to dlyons@therichardsgrp.com, or reach out to Dan directly at 802-556-1167 with any questions. Resumes and cover letters will be accepted until we have a strong candidate slate.

Legal Services Vermont is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities it serves.