Vice President of People & Culture

THE ORGANIZATION 

Braille Institute is a nonprofit organization that has been positively transforming the lives of those with vision loss for more than 100 years since its founding in 1919 by J. Robert Atkinson. Braille Institute offers a broad range of free programs, classes, and services both in person and virtual to more than 20,000 children, youth, and adults each year. 

Braille Institute’s staff (185 FTE) and over 2,200 in-person and virtual volunteers are fully committed to the mission of Braille Institute -- “To positively transform the lives of those with vision loss.”  Braille Institute’s current annual operating budget is approximately $33 million with an endowment totaling approximately $300 million.  

THE OPPORTUNITY   

Braille Institute seeks a team-oriented and forward-thinking professional for the position of Vice President of People & Culture (VPPC). Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer/CFO and with a reporting line to the Chief Executive Officer, this member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) will partner across the organization to build on Braille Institute’s legacy and help advance it into its next century as a model, best-practices-driven workplace defined by innovation, shared values, and a client-centered approach. 

The VPPC will lead the continued transformation of Braille Institute’s people function, culture, structure, and policies by driving key human resources best practices and initiatives. This role provides strategic leadership across all aspects of the function, including talent acquisition, organizational development and learning, culture, internal communications, HR operations, and accessibility.  

As a member of the ELT, the VPPC will develop and execute a comprehensive people strategy that supports organizational goals. In partnership with leadership, they will shape and implement frameworks for talent acquisition, employee engagement, leadership development, performance management, compensation, organizational design, and change management. The VPPC will also oversee a team, including the Director of People & Culture, as well as the Volunteer Impact Program team. This includes providing leadership, mentorship, and oversight to ensure effective day-to-day operations and a high-performing, service-oriented team.  

A collaborative team-builder and engaged leader, the VPPC will maintain a strong presence throughout Braille Institute’s footprint in Southern California, traveling periodically to its various locations and participating in key events. In this role, they will champion a positive, inclusive culture, fostering strong, trust-based relationships across the organization.  

CAREER TRACK LEADING TO THIS POSITION 

Competitive candidates will have a track record of progressive human resources experience, including a solid foundation in leadership development and employee relations at a senior level.  

• Demonstrated success in driving change and shaping organizational culture. 

• Strong project management experience and problem-solving skills, including the ability to gather, organize, analyze, and present data effectively.  

• Proven success in fostering inclusive work environments. 

• Exceptional communications skills - written, verbal and interpersonal – with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences.  

• Deep knowledge and practical application of HR disciplines, including leadership development, organizational design, recruitment, compensation philosophy, performance management, employment and labor law, and employee relations. 

• Current knowledge of emerging HR trends and best practices. 
• Knowledge of California labor laws is strongly preferred. 
• A bachelor’s degree is required. A master's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, or a related field and/or SHRM-CP/SCP or PHR/SPHR certification is preferred.