DAIL Policy & Special Initiatives Director

State of Vermont•Waterbury, CT

3d•Onsite

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.
Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position.
In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Nice To Haves

The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation

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
Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
Low cost group life insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
Incentive-based Wellness Program
Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program