Associate Director of Programs and Initiatives

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Richmond, VA

About The Position

The Virginia Department of Education is looking for an Associate Director of Programs and Initiatives who will be responsible for the development, management, and evaluation of the complex multi-faceted statewide federal child nutrition programs (NSLP/SBP, SFSP, CACFP At-Risk Afterschool Meals) whose components are administered locally. The position will assist the Director in the management of the state office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. This position is responsible for providing complex professional, technical, and analytical services to local school divisions, Residential Childcare Institutions, state government, professional, and community organizations; oversight and coordination in the areas of financial management; development, implementation, tracking, and evaluation of program goals; contracting; and monitoring compliance to meet state and federal regulations.

Requirements

Extensive knowledge of Child Nutrition Program laws and regulations and demonstrated experience conducting or participating in administrative, financial, or procurement reviews.
Demonstrated professional experience building, strengthening, or managing partnerships with federal, state, local, or non-profit organizations to support the administration, implementation, or improvement of child nutrition program operations.
Skilled in developing engaging communications for a variety of audiences.
Demonstrated professional experience speaking effectively before large groups on child nutrition issues.
Ability to plan, coordinate, and conduct regional and state trainings, conferences, and events.
Demonstrated professional experience formulating ideas and turning them into detailed actionable items.
Ability to analyze data, make recommendations, and implement solutions for efficient and effective program administration.
Proven ability to lead complex operational systems or manage multiple projects.
Strong leadership skills and skilled at building high-performing teams, managing performance, and driving a mission-driven workplace culture.
Demonstrated experience contributing to or leading strategic planning efforts, including assessing program needs, identifying priorities, setting goals, and developing actionable plans that align with organizational objectives.

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an accredited college or university or an equivalent combination of education and experience; advanced degree is preferred.
Experience at the State Agency level in School or Community Nutrition Programs, preferred.
Experience in a leadership role administering USDA Child Nutrition Programs within a local school division or community sponsoring organization, preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist in the development and execution of multi-year strategic plans aligned with agency priorities and federal child nutrition program requirements.
Foster and maintain partnerships with school divisions, state agencies, professional associations, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders to strengthen program impact.
Represent the VDOE in interagency workgroups, advisory councils, and professional associations to elevate school and community nutrition initiatives.
Assist in the development, interpretation, and implementation of policies and procedures that govern child nutrition programs.
Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, providing clear guidance to local program operators.
Draft and review communications, policy documents, guidance memos, and training materials for dissemination to stakeholders.
Provide recommendations to agency leadership on program improvements and policy alignment with best practices.
Oversee the development, execution, and monitoring of contracts and agreements that support child nutrition programs such as through training, resource development, nutrition education, program integrity or other professional services.
Ensure compliance with federal and state procurement regulations and best practices.
Directly supervise and evaluate program and training unit coordinators and assure staff have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities including interim evaluations as appropriate.