Policy, Planning and Compliance Director (Hybrid Work Schedule)

Virginia Information Technologies Agency • Richmond, VA

21h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Virginia Retirement System (VRS), an independent state agency located in Richmond, Virginia, delivers retirement and other benefits to Virginia public sector employees through sound financial stewardship and superior customer service. VRS ranks as the 14th largest public or private pension fund in the U.S. and the 42nd largest in the world, serving approximately 850,000 active and inactive members, retirees and beneficiaries. Our members include public school teachers, political subdivision employees (counties, cities, towns, special authorities and commissions), state agency employees, public college and university personnel, state police, Virginia law officers and the judiciary with approximately 832 participating employers. Join VRS as a trusted leader in the delivery of benefits and services to those we serve. VRS fosters a high-performing workforce in a hybrid work environment (3 days in the office, 2 days remote) where employees are celebrated and professional growth and development is encouraged. The Policy, Planning and Compliance Director is a key member of the executive team who plays a significant role in the agency’s policymaking and leadership activities. Reporting to the VRS Director, this position provides legal analysis of applicable statutes, rules, and regulations, and provides legal support to VRS departments and staff in coordination with the Office of the Attorney General.

Requirements

• The ideal candidate will have a Juris Doctor from a fully accredited American Bar Association-approved law school or equivalent qualification and be a current member of and remain in good standing with the Virginia State Bar.
• Six (6) years of professional legal experience in state or local government with at least two (2) years supervisory experience, preferred.
• Ability to communicate with individuals at all levels and to establish and maintain working relationships with senior management, government officials, and legislators.
• Experience interacting with public officials, executives, and legislators.
• Exceptional analytical, planning and oral and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of VRS programs and services.
• Knowledge of public pension plans and familiarity with legal issues and trends in public pension plan governance and administration including advising a multimember governing body.

Responsibilities

• Directs and coordinates the activities of the policy, legislative, actuarial, and appeals areas of the agency.
• Plans, manages, oversees, and directs policy, compliance, and in-house legal activities in the areas of actuarial support, the development and revision of Board policies including Requests for Board Action, policy and legal review of retirement plans and supplemental programs, review and negotiation of contracts, Freedom of Information Act requests and review of administrative appeals, subpoenas, powers of attorney, and approved domestic relations orders (ADROs). Provides comprehensive analysis and legal advice regarding all aspects of VRS’ operations.
• In conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General, provides complex legal support to the VRS Director and staff. Coordinates and oversees the work of outside legal firms providing specialized legal services to VRS, coordinates with other governmental entities on policy matters affecting VRS and undertakes special projects and other duties as directed.
• Provides legal advice, guidance, and support to department managers in the area of policy, legislative interpretation and application, research, and appeals under the Virginia Administrative Process Act.
• Leads legislative and governmental affairs including directing staff who provide liaison activities with the executive branch, General Assembly, JLARC, and other external stakeholders to ensure that complete and accurate information is available related to legislation, fiscal impact statements, studies, and requests for information.
• Applies state and federal law, including all appropriate regulatory provisions. Maintains in-depth knowledge of the Virginia Administrative Process Act, the Freedom of Information Act, the Virginia Public Procurement Act, the Virginia Appropriation Act, the Virginia Conflict of Interest Act, general employment law, legislative and regulatory processes, VRS policies, and provisions related to retirement plans and other post-employment benefits in the Internal Revenue Code.
• Serves as a member of the Director’s Executive Committee, contributing to establishing overall agency strategies and priorities, and providing advice and guidance, as needed by the Director, regarding overall agency management and leadership.
• Participates as a team member or lead where appropriate on projects, implementations and initiatives as part of the agency’s enterprise project portfolio.
• Collaborates with colleagues to ensure compliance when implementing legislative or regulatory changes or other board-directed actions.

Benefits

• health and life insurance
• paid vacation and holidays
• an agency bonus program
• participation in the VRS retirement program with options for additional tax-deferred retirement savings, including employer matching contributions to retirement savings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees