Executive Director

Executive Director – Albany, New York

About Us
Prisoners' Legal Services of New York (PLS) is a mission driven nonprofit providing high-quality civil legal services to indigent individuals in New York State correctional facilities in cases where no other counsel is available. Founded in 1976 in response to the Attica uprising, PLS engages in civil rights advocacy and litigation primarily in cases involving claims of unconstitutional conditions of confinement, prolonged placement in solitary confinement, deliberate indifference to serious mental health and medical needs, excessive use of force, violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act, access to education, child visitation and support, immigration, reentry and sentence computation issues. We are a unionized workplace with a dedicated team of attorneys, advocates, and support staff who work to ensure equal access to justice for all. PLS has regional offices in Albany, Buffalo, Ithaca and Newburgh and a satellite office in Brooklyn.

Position Overview
The Executive Director will serve as the chief executive and strategic leader of the organization, responsible for advancing our mission, providing broad oversight for legal work, ensuring financial sustainability, recruiting and hiring high quality staff, and fostering a collaborative, inclusive workplace culture. The Executive Director is the spokesperson for PLS and works to develop partnerships to advance the vision and mission of the organization. This role also works with managers and staff in setting, reviewing, overseeing and coordinating the priorities for PLS's legal work. The Executive Director secures funding, through state contracts, foundation grants, major donations, and other sources in order to effectively grow the organization and works with the Director of Finance to ensure sound financial and fiscal management. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and works with the Board to ensure effective oversight, Board development and organizational growth. Travel throughout New York State is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction.
• Work closely with the Executive Team to ensure proper management of both the legal and administrative operations of the program.
• Oversee delivery of legal services, ensuring high-quality representation, including impact cases and class actions.
• Lead fundraising efforts, including donor relations and grant development.
• Ensure sound financial management and compliance with all contractual obligations.
• Represent the organization in public forums, partnerships, and advocacy efforts.
• Foster a respectful, collaborative relationship with the staff union and uphold collective bargaining agreements.
• Manage a diverse team, promoting professional growth and equity.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) and Bar Admission and NYS Bar eligible;
• Significant leadership experience in legal services, nonprofit management, or related field;
• Proven track record in strategic planning, fundraising, and organizational leadership;
• Strong commitment to social justice;
• Excellent relationship-building and problem-solving skills;
• Experience with or sensitivity to the dynamics of working with a unionized staff; and
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, community organizations, attorneys, the judiciary, the Legislature, the Executive, prison employees, the press and the public.

Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plan, and generous paid leave.

Salary Transparency
The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $160,000 to $200,000. This position is a non-union position.

PLS' Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship, pregnancy or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
Formerly incarcerated people or previously detained individuals are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply
Please submit your cover letter, resume, writing sample, and at least three (3) references by email to Include "PLS Executive Director" in the subject line. No phone calls please.