Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Executive Director

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

13d•$80,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director to lead our agency. The Executive Director will oversee the Commission’s strategic direction, ensure effective program implementation, and advocate for the needs of Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing Nebraskans. This role requires a visionary leader with a deep commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and community engagement. The Lincoln, NE office is the ‘home’ office for NCDHH, the Director is expected to primarily work at the Lincoln office.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution, ideally in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, or a related area.
OR at least five (5) years of senior leadership experience, preferably within a government agency or community organization
AND 1-3 years of experience in developing and leading strategic initiatives and managing personnel.
Strong understanding of Deaf culture, communication modalities, and the needs of Hard of Hearing individuals, along with relevant legislation.
Advocacy Experience: Strong track record of advocating for the rights and needs of diverse communities, particularly within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing sectors.
Legislative Expertise: Experience in navigating and influencing legislative processes, including drafting and advocating for relevant policies and funding.
Healthcare Access: Experience in ensuring communication access in healthcare settings and training interpreters in health and behavioral care.
Community Engagement: Demonstrated ability to engage with and build relationships within the community, ensuring effective outreach and support.
Cultural Competence: Deep understanding and respect for Deaf culture and the unique needs of Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing individuals.
Educational Experience: Experience in K-12 Deaf education and working with families of Deaf/Hard of Hearing children.
Late Deafened Individuals: Experience working with late-deafened individuals.
Senior Citizens: Experience working with seniors.
Rural Community Awareness: Ability to assess and address the unique challenges and needs of rural communities, ensuring equitable access to resources and services for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing individuals.
Innovation and Problem-Solving: Proactive and innovative approach to problem-solving, with a focus on developing new strategies and solutions to meet community needs.
Professional Growth: Strong commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth, staying current with best practices and emerging trends in the field.
Travel will be required occasionally; valid driver’s license is required to meet travel needs effectively.
Regular and Reliable attendance is required.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, collaboration and advocacy skills.
Financial Management: Experience in budget development and management, and grant writing and securing funding.
Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee all agency program activities and approve any program changes.
Recommend to the Commissioners areas of need for change related to programming, work with staff to maintain high-quality services.
Direct the collection of data required to evaluate programs and report on activities as mandated by the Commission or by law.
Develop and direct organizational strategy.
Draft organization policies and philosophies, as necessary.
Carry out the policies of the Commission and other entities that interact with the agency in a regulatory or fiscal relationship.
Inform the Commissioners regarding policy changes and recommend policy decisions which come before the agency to be resolved.
Represent the Commission at meetings, conferences, civic functions, and other related activities.
Respond to third-party inquiries on behalf of the Commission.
Organize and present testimony at the Nebraska legislature on issues related to the agency and interact with legislators and state and federal government officials on behalf of the agency.
Responsible for the management and supervision of all agency personnel, including coordination of goals, objectives, and performance standards; regular evaluation of job performance; and supervisory activities as deemed necessary.
Responsible for developing the agency's budget on a biennial basis.
Work with the state budget division and the legislature to assure adequate agency funding.
Pursue funding to secure the needs of the agency as determined by the Commission.
Secure Commission approval for the final budget document annually and for any major revisions in the budget during a funding year.
Review requests for information/presentations and assign as appropriate.
Coordinate and prepare for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission meetings held four times a year.
Coordinate and prepare communication, including a periodic newsletter, Commission publications, and others as requested.
Maintain open and constructive communication with all stakeholders.
Omaha office visits.
Occasional visits to the other three offices in western Nebraska.
Other duties assigned by the Commission Board.

Benefits

13 paid holidays
Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
Military leave
156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
79% employer paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Fun, inviting teammates
A safe and secure environment