Executive Director, Interdisciplinary Center for Autism Services at Saint Louis University in SLU Saint Louis, MO

Job description

Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. ABOUT THE CENTER Established in 2019 within Saint Louis University’s School of Education , the Interdisciplinary Center for Autism Services (ICAS) provides diagnostic evaluation, parent education, social skills programming, and support navigating educational and community services for individuals with autism and their families. ICAS is entering a period of growth, with plans to expand interdisciplinary clinical services across the lifespan, community and school partnerships, and interdisciplinary training for students and professionals. JOB SUMMARY The Executive Director provides visionary, strategic, and operational leadership for the Interdisciplinary Center for Autism Services (ICAS). Reporting directly to the Dean of the School of Education, the Executive Director is responsible for building and sustaining a high-functioning, mission-driven center that serves individuals with autism and behavioral health needs while advancing Saint Louis University's commitment to research, education, and community engagement. The Executive Director will manage day-to-day operations, develop and steward external funding to support research and services, and represent ICAS and SLU with community partners, funders, and university stakeholders. This position is being funded by a grant and/or designated source, and therefore continuation in the position is contingent upon funding availability. PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Leadership & Strategy Provides leadership for ICAS, strengthening its operational infrastructure, staffing model, culture, policies, and procedures to support continued growth and increased capacity Develops and implements a strategic plan aligned with the Center's mission and the priorities of Saint Louis University and the School of Education Provide leadership and supervision for ICAS clinicians and staff and foster a collaborative, interdisciplinary team environment Operations & Administration Manages the day-to-day operations of the Center, including staffing, budgeting, facilities, and resource allocation systems for monitoring service delivery, program outcomes, financial performance, and organization effectiveness Fundraising & External Relations Develop and pursue external funding opportunities, including grants and philanthropic support, to advance the Center’s programs and long-term sustainability Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, school districts, funders, philanthropic partners, and state and federal agencies Represent ICAS with university and community stakeholders and in relevant public and professional settings Lead the expansion and implementation of interdisciplinary clinical services across the lifespan Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory, accreditation, billing, reimbursement, and ethical standards Establish Workforce & Academic Integration, & Research Partner with SLU faculty to integrate ICAS activities with graduate and undergraduate education and expand practicum, fieldwork, and clinical training opportunities across disciplines Partner with faculty and university research leaders to advance interdisciplinary applied research and program evaluation connected to the Center’s work Promote evidence-based practice, continuous learning, and dissemination of research and program outcomes KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of autism, neurodevelopmental, and related services across the lifespan Knowledge of clinical program administration, including regulatory compliance, billing and reimbursement systems, and personnel management Knowledge of academic, clinical, and community partnership models that integrate research, education, and service