Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Executive Director

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

8d•$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. Look at what we have to offer! • 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 At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!

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.
Travel will be required occasionally; valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required to meet travel needs effectively.
Strong understanding of Deaf culture, communication modalities, and the needs of Hard of Hearing individuals, along with relevant legislation.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, collaboration and advocacy skills.
Experience in budget development and management, and grant writing and securing funding.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred.
Strong track record of advocating for the rights and needs of diverse communities, particularly within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing sectors.
Experience in navigating and influencing legislative processes, including drafting and advocating for relevant policies and funding.
Experience in ensuring communication access in healthcare settings and training interpreters in health and behavioral care.
Demonstrated ability to engage with and build relationships within the community, ensuring effective outreach and support.
Deep understanding and respect for Deaf culture and the unique needs of Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing individuals.
Experience in K-12 Deaf education and working with families of Deaf/Hard of Hearing children.
Experience working with late-deafened individuals.
Experience working with seniors.
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.
Proactive and innovative approach to problem-solving, with a focus on developing new strategies and solutions to meet community needs.
Strong commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth, staying current with best practices and emerging trends in the field.

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.
Omaha office visits.
Occasional visits to the other three offices in western Nebraska.
Other duties assigned by the Commission Board.
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.

Benefits

13 paid holidays
Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
Military leave
156% 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)
Wide variety and availability of career advancement
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