Executive Director – Charelston Legal Access (South Carolina)
About Charleston Legal Access Charleston Legal Access (CLA) is a nonprofit law firm committed to increasing access to justice by providing high-quality legal services to individuals and families who cannot afford traditional representation but do not qualify for free legal aid. We operate at the heart of Charleston’s justice ecosystem—partnering with courts, community organizations, and service providers to ensure that no one falls through the cracks of the system simply because they cannot afford an attorney. CLA is at an exciting moment of growth. We are expanding our services, strengthening community partnerships, and recently added immigration legal services, addressing a major unmet need in the region. Our next Executive Director will have the opportunity to help shape the future of equitable legal access in Charleston. The Opportunity The Executive Director will lead a small but highly committed team during a period of important strategic expansion. This is a hands-on leadership role for a mission-driven attorney who wants to combine legal expertise, organizational leadership, and community impact. The right candidate will be energized by: • Developing and carrying forward a strategic vision • Strengthening and expanding programs (including immigration services) • Building and supporting a high-performing legal team • Deepening community partnerships • Increasing CLA’s visibility and impact • Leading with compassion, equity, and dignity for clients This is an opportunity to step into a role where your leadership directly shapes the lives of families, children, immigrants, and community members who otherwise face the legal system alone. Key ResponsibilitiesOrganizational Leadership & Strategy • Lead the strategic direction, growth, and operational health of CLA • Oversee organizational planning, program design, and service expansion • Strengthen internal systems, culture, and performance management • Support the legal team in delivering high-quality, client-centered legal services Legal & Program Oversight • Provide guidance to attorneys and support staff • Ensure program compliance, ethical practice, and high service standards • Oversee the expansion and development of immigration legal services • Engage with courts, community partners, and other legal service providers Community Engagement & Partnerships • Serve as the public ambassador for CLA • Develop and maintain strong relationships with community-based organizations, bar associations, donors, and civic partners • Represent CLA in public forums, community events, and collaborative initiatives Fundraising & Development • Work with the Board and partners to secure diverse funding sources • Support grant writing, donor stewardship, and fundraising strategy • Ensure financial stability and sustainable growth for the organization Board Relations • Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors • Communicate progress, challenges, and opportunities • Support Board governance and strategic planning QualificationsRequired • Juris Doctor (JD) • Active bar license (in any U.S. jurisdiction) or ability to reinstate/reactivate; willingness to become licensed in SC • Demonstrated commitment to expanding access to justice • At least 7+ years of relevant legal, nonprofit, or public-interest experience • Experience supervising attorneys, legal staff, or multidisciplinary teams • Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills Preferred • Experience working with low-income or underserved communities • Nonprofit leadership or management experience • Experience in immigration law, housing, family law, or civil legal services (not required) • Experience with fundraising, donor engagement, or grant management • Strategic planning or organizational development background What We Offer • The chance to lead an organization at a pivotal moment of growth • A supportive Board and a collaborative, dedicated staff • Flexibility in shaping the future of legal services delivery in Charleston • A meaningful role where your work directly changes lives • Hybrid work flexibility Send your resume and a thoughtful cover letter to [email protected] with “CLA Executive Director Search” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Charleston Legal Access is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Apply tot his job