DAIL Policy & Special Initiatives Director
About The Position
The Developmental Disabilities Services Division (DDSD) is seeking an innovative and visionary leader to help shape the future of services and supports for Vermonters with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for a strategic thinker who thrives in complex environments, excels at building partnerships, and is passionate about advancing equitable, person-centered systems of care. In this role, you will influence statewide policy, lead transformative initiatives, and collaborate across government, providers, and community stakeholders to improve outcomes for individuals and families across Vermont.
Requirements
- Expertise in Medicaid policy, developmental disabilities services, HCBS, or related human services systems.
- Experience leading strategic initiatives, policy development, or large-scale operational projects.
- Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
- The ability to analyze complex issues and translate them into actionable solutions.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including executive-level reporting and presentations.
- A commitment to innovation, inclusion, and improving outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Master's Degree AND three (3) years of experience, at least some of which was at an executive level, in public policy, legislative process, communications, or governmental relations.
- OR Bachelor's Degree AND five (5) years of experience, at least some of which was at an executive level, in public policy, legislative process, communications, or governmental relations.
- OR Seven (7) years of experience, at least some of which was at an executive level, in public policy, legislative process, communications, or governmental relations.
Responsibilities
- Lead major policy, strategic planning, and systems improvement initiatives for DDSD programs.
- Provide oversight and direction for program operations and financial monitoring in partnership with the DAIL Business Office.
- Drive implementation of state and federal mandates while ensuring ongoing regulatory compliance.
- Lead complex, cross-functional projects from concept through execution - aligning teams, resources, timelines, and measurable outcomes.
- Develop policy proposals, contracts, grants, and interagency agreements that advance Division priorities and innovation.
- Monitor emerging trends in Medicaid, Home-and-Community-Based Services (HCBS), behavioral health, and human services to inform forward-thinking strategies.
- Identify unmet needs and design creative, sustainable solutions that improve access, equity, and quality of care.
- Collaborate closely with agency leadership, legislators, providers, advocates, and community partners to shape policy and legislative priorities.
- Prepare executive briefings, strategic reports, presentations, and communications for leadership and stakeholders.
- Navigate and manage communications surrounding high-profile, sensitive, and complex initiatives with professionalism and diplomacy.
Benefits
- 80% State paid medical premium
- Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
- Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- State defined benefit pension plan
- Deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- 11 paid holidays each year
- Generous leave plan
- Low cost group life insurance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Executive
