Description
Position Overview
Legal Services of Eastern Michigan (LSEM) seeks a visionary and mission-driven Executive
Director (ED) to lead our dynamic, regional nonprofit legal services organization. Reporting to
the Board of Directors, the ED is responsible for providing strategic leadership, organizational
management, and public representation of LSEM in its mission to deliver high-quality civil legal
assistance to low-income and marginalized populations across Eastern Michigan.
This is a unique opportunity to lead LSEM during a time of need, while shaping its next chapter
of innovation, equity, and service expansion.
About Legal Services of Eastern Michigan
Since its founding in 1951, LSEM has been a cornerstone in the pursuit of justice for individuals
and families who face economic hardship and barriers to accessing legal services. Headquartered
in Flint, LSEM serves a 14-county region through two offices, addressing issues such as housing
instability, consumer protection, family safety, elder rights, income maintenance, and access to
disability benefits.
LSEM is committed to empowering communities, stabilizing homes, advancing social and
economic justice, and fostering long-term systemic change. Our dedicated staff of attorneys,
paralegals, and administrative professionals work collaboratively with courts, nonprofit partners,
and client communities to ensure fair treatment under the law.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
Champion LSEM’s mission and values, guiding the organization with vision, integrity,
and transparency.
Lead the strategic planning and needs assessment process and ensure alignment with
client needs, community changes, and systemic priorities.
Cultivate a mission-centered, inclusive, and high-performance organizational culture.
Board Relations & Governance
Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to set and advance strategic priorities.
Provide regular updates and support to the Board.
Ensure the Board is informed, engaged, and equipped to fulfill its governance and
fiduciary responsibilities.
Staff & Organizational Development
Recruit, mentor, and retain a diverse, talented, and union-respectful staff.
Support the Leadership Team in achieving operational excellence across departments.
Foster a culture of continuous learning, cross-functional collaboration, and staff
development.
Program Oversight & Compliance
Ensure LSEM’s programs deliver high-quality, trauma-informed, and culturally
competent legal services.
Maintain full compliance with Legal Services Corporation (LSC) regulations and other
grantor requirements.
Monitor case outcomes, program metrics, and community impact to guide ongoing
improvement.
Fiscal Stewardship
Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and internal controls in coordination with finance
staff and the Board.
Ensure fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability through effective resource
allocation and risk management.
Manage a multimillion-dollar budget with a strong mix of federal, state, and private
support.
Fundraising & Resource Development
Lead LSEM’s fundraising efforts, including government contracts, foundation grants, and
individual giving.
Cultivate strong relationships with funders, philanthropic partners, and community
stakeholders.
Expand and diversify funding streams to support program innovation and growth.
Community Engagement & Advocacy
Serve as LSEM’s chief ambassador and spokesperson across Eastern Michigan and
beyond.
Build strategic alliances with courts, bar associations, community-based organizations,
and government entities.
Advocate for access to justice and equitable legal systems at the local, state, and national
levels.
Candidate Profile
Required Qualifications
Juris Doctor (JD) required; admission to State Bar of Michigan (or at earliest
convenience if not already admitted); deep knowledge of civil legal aid, public interest
law, or nonprofit legal management required.
Minimum of 5–7 years in a senior leadership role, with both law practice and experience
in nonprofit or legal services organizations.
Demonstrated success in managing cross-functional teams, overseeing budgets, and
developing strategy.
Experience working productively with a Board of Directors and in a unionized
environment.
Skills & Attributes
Unwavering commitment to advancing justice and equity.
Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills across diverse constituencies.
Strategic thinker with the ability to execute operational plans and lead change.
Cultural competence and a demonstrated commitment to inclusion and accessibility.
Passionate, resilient, ethical, and collaborative leadership style.
Compensation & Benefits
LSEM offers a competitive salary based on experience and aligned with public interest standards
for compensation. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
Salary Range: $110,000 - $130,000 depending on experience
Medical insurance and Flexible Spending Account
Life, AD&D, and disability coverage
Retirement plan with employer contribution
Generous paid leave
Professional development opportunities
Potential Student Loan assistance
Employee assistance program and wellness resources
Application Process
Please submit the following materials:
A detailed résumé
A cover letter outlining your interest in the role, qualifications, and vision for advancing
LSEM’s mission
Three professional Letters of Recommendation with names and contact information for
the related references
Applications can be submitted to:
Application Submission Form
Currently, applications are accepted via the link above. An alternative option for submission is
to email to humanresources@lsem-mi.org.
Questions should be forwarded to Christina Wixson at cwixson@lsem-mi.org.
Application review will begin on a rolling basis. The application deadline is December 5, 2025.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Legal Services of Eastern Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to
building a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are welcomed and encouraged
to apply.
