Executive Director

Black Hawk County•Black Hawk County Veteran Affairs, IA

12d

About The Position

Under the direction of the Veterans Affairs Commission and in collaboration with the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors, the Executive Director oversees the operations, programs, and services of the Veterans Affairs Department in accordance with Iowa Code Chapter 35B. The role provides departmental leadership and administration, including staff supervision, budget management, development and administration of policies and procedures, and oversight of veteran assistance programs. The Executive Director also assists veterans and their families in accessing local, state, and federal benefits and advocates for veterans through community outreach, public engagement, and collaboration with community organizations and service providers. The Executive Director receives supervision from the Veterans Affairs Commission and exercises functional and administrative supervision over Veterans Affairs Department staff. The position requires regular and predictable attendance at a specified location, a flexible schedule, and occasional additional time as needed. The successful candidate must meet Iowa Code Chapter 35B active-duty service requirements, hold a valid Iowa driver's license, and be insurable under County guidelines. Required NACVSO accreditation must be obtained within one year of hire, with continuing education completed to maintain accreditation.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field and at least three years of experience in service delivery at a management level, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must have served 90 consecutive days of active duty, unless discharged for medical reasons, during a war or conflict listed in Iowa Code Chapter 35B.
Valid Iowa driver's license and insurability under County guidelines.
Considerable knowledge of federal and state statutes, regulations, and policies affecting veteran benefits, including Iowa Code Chapter 35B.
Knowledge of interviewing and counseling techniques and ability to assess needs, resolve problems, and determine eligibility for veterans assistance programs.
Knowledge of community resources, governmental agencies, and organizations serving veterans and their families.
Knowledge of management and leadership principles and practices, including employee performance management and administration.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking, presentations, and report preparation.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to use job-related software and electronic records systems.
Ability to plan, organize, direct, and evaluate departmental operations, establish priorities, and implement improvements.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and make sound administrative and operational decisions within established authority.
Ability to prepare and manage departmental budgets and monitor expenditures.
Ability to interpret reports and statistics, evaluate operational information, and make informed recommendations.
Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and confidentiality requirements.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive information.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the Veterans Affairs Commission, Board of Supervisors, County departments, employees, community organizations, and the public.
Ability to incorporate the County's mission and core values into departmental practices and align departmental goals and objectives with the County's strategic plan.
Must obtain Iowa Department of Veteran Affairs certification within one year of hire confirming national accreditation by the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO).
Must obtain the continuing education units required to maintain NACVSO and Department of Veteran Affairs accreditation.
Must be available to work a flexible schedule and occasional additional time as needed.

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, direct, and evaluate the operations, programs, and services of the Veterans Affairs Department.
Develop and administer departmental operating policies and procedures, and recommend improvements to operational effectiveness and service delivery.
Coordinate with governmental agencies, veterans service organizations, community organizations, and other service providers to maximize resources and services for veterans and their families.
Counsel, advise, and assist veterans, survivors, and dependents regarding local, state, and federal veteran benefits and assistance programs.
Promote public awareness through community outreach, public speaking, presentations, professional organizations, and community events.
Oversee veterans assistance programs, including reviewing staff eligibility decisions, conducting hearings, and taking corrective action as needed.
Supervise staff in accordance with County policies, contracts, and applicable laws, including interviewing, hiring, training, assigning and directing work, evaluating performance, addressing complaints, and resolving problems.
Stay informed about laws, regulations, and national trends affecting veterans; advise the Veterans Affairs Commission and provide departmental updates.
Prepare and administer the departmental budget and monitor expenditures.
Coordinate with the Board of Supervisors and other County departments on departmental operations and administration, consistent with the Veterans Affairs Commission's authority.
Maintain required training and certification in accordance with Iowa Code Chapter 35B.6 and applicable NACVSO accreditation and continuing education requirements.
Perform other related duties as assigned.