Michael J. Vaz

15+ years of management experience, including being CEO of a non-profit organization and for-profit company. Transformed an underperforming non-profit into a thriving, financially successful entity. Advanced staff training and development skills, community relationship building, Board/employee relations, finance/marketing leadership, fundraising, and strategy planning.

Executive Director - Thames River Community Service - Norwich, CT

(2024-01)

Provide strategic leadership and oversee daily operations of a nonprofit organization providing housing and support services to transitional homeless residents ages 18-24. Managing a team of 15 staff and a $1.2 million budget as well as expanding programs, increasing client engagement, and partnering with local organizations. Represent the organization at various levels, advocating for policy changes and funding.

Collaborate with the Board of Directors on strategic goals, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Chief Executive Officer - PLUS 3 LLC (dba Chick'nCone) - Kissimmee, FL

(2021-01 - 2024-12)

Independent owner and operator of a Chick'nCone franchise in Winter Park, FL. Responsible for major corporate decisions, managed the overall operations, marketing, and resources as well as acting as the main point of communication.

Executive Director - Woodside on the Move - Woodside, NY

(2017-01 - 2021-12)

Managed all aspects of a multi-service nonprofit organization (housing immigration, multi-site educational programs, culture/arts) with 100 employees, 100 volunteers, and 500 members. Managed an annual budget of $2.7 million and lead a senior team of 3 to oversee organizational goals. Accountable for strategic planning, human resources, finance management, fundraising, management leadership, and policymaking (in a joint effort with the Board of Directors).

Served as public spokesman for WOTM, delivered presentations to various groups, and managed media relations.

Program Manager - New York Edge - Woodside, NY

(2016-01 - 2017-12)

Exercised authority over a $1 million budget for the operation and success of 7 comprehensive afterschool programs based in K-12 schools. Responsible for contract compliance, curriculum development, training, recruitment of staff, daily supervision of Site Directors, record keeping as well as reporting and assisting with the planning and organizing of special events, budgeting, and funding sources.

Director of Bushwick Community Center, Department of Employment Coordinator (Beacon), Youth Development Coordinator (Beacon) - Grand Street Settlement - New York, NY

(2002-01 - 2016-12)

Managed 4 budgets totaling $1 million (Cornerstone, Youth Mentoring Initiative, Extended School Day, and Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program). Managed a 2000-member community recreation center at a New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Development focused on promoting education, workforce development, and community service for youth, adults, and seniors. Increased funding by $250,000 which was used to enhance programming and site renovation.

Increased participation by 20% through development and implementing a publicity campaign with public elected officials and various for-profit and nonprofit entities.

Assistant Director - North Carolina Department of Public Safety - Butner, NC

(2012-01 - 2013-12)

Managed the operation and administration of a juvenile correctional facility. Developed and implemented appropriate security and facility policies and procedures. Directed subordinate supervisors as well as other facility staff. Managed and conducted inspections, searches, investigations, and evaluations. Served as strategic liaison with government agencies and service providers.

Facility Director - Catholic Guardian Society - New York, NY

(2007-01 - 2012-12)

Responsible for directing, coordinating, developing, and supervising all program components and operations of a non-secure detention facility for male juveniles and an independent living facility for developmentally disabled adults. Developed and implemented comprehensive monitoring systems to ensure safety and regulatory compliance with the Office of Children & Family Services (OCFS), New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), and other regulatory oversight agency standards, as well as ensure that all Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) policies are adhered to.

Facility Assistant Director - Office of Children & Family Services - New York, NY

(2006-01 - 2007-12)

Managed the operation and administration of a juvenile correctional facility. Developed and implemented appropriate security and facility policies and procedures. Directed subordinate supervisors as well as other facility staff. Managed and conducted inspections, searches, investigations, and evaluations. Served as strategic liaison with government agencies and service providers.

Program Director - Boys & Girls Club of OB-EN - Oyster Bay, NY

(2003-01 - 2006-12)

Supervised membership, outreach, child-care, and day camp departments in a $3.2 million full-facility Boys & Girls Club. Managed the operation, administration, and marketing of designated Clubhouse programs and activities that support Youth Development Outcomes. Generated 20% new membership growth within a year of developing and implementing a membership sales campaign and service strategy. Member of the Executive team which raised over $200,000 annually from various charitable events.

Program Director (Part-time) - Southeast Bronx Neighborhood Centers, Inc. - Bronx, NY

(2007-01 - 2009-12)

Managed, coordinated, and administered government-sponsored, job-related training programs for non-violent offenders and NYCHA residents. Exceeded enrollment targets of 95 participants to over 180 every year. Over 70% of our registered participants applied and secured some form of unsubsidized or subsidized employment.

Bachelor of Arts - Political Science - SUNY at Buffalo State College