Director - Department for the Blind Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa/jobs/newprint/4785497) Apply  Director - Department for the Blind Salary $67,350.40 - $104,187.20 Annually Location Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA Job Type Full-time Job Number 25-01884 Agency 131 Iowa Department for the Blind Opening Date 01/13/2025 Closing Date 1/24/2025 11:59 PM Central LinkedIn Tag #LI-DNP Point of Contact Jane Dufoe - Jane.Dufoe@governor.iowa.gov To Apply Applicants are encouraged to attach the following to the online application: CV, current resume, transcripts, copy of license, and professional references + Description + Questions Job Description This is a non-merit position. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise. Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for empowering individuals with disabilities? Do you have the expertise, strategic experience, and commitment to foster independence and equal opportunity for individuals who are blind or have low vision? The Iowa Department for the Blindis seeking an accomplished, results-drivenDirectorto lead our organization in its mission to transform lives through advocacy, education, and innovative support services. This is an exceptional opportunity for a forward-thinking and compassionate leader to make a lasting impact on the community while driving forward critical programs and policies. Key Responsibilities: + Strategic Leadership:Provide forward-thinking leadership in the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs and policies that promote independence, accessibility, and equality for individuals who are blind or have low vision. Lead the strategic direction of the Department. + Operational Management:Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Department, managing staff, budgets, and resources to ensure the highest quality of service delivery. Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and implement best practices across all programs. + Stakeholder Collaboration:Build and maintain strategic partnerships with local, state, and national organizations, including government agencies, community organizations, non-profits, and advocacy groups. Represent the Department in key forums, ensuring visibility and engagement at various meetings, conferences, and public events. + Program and Policy Development:Collaborate with stakeholders to continuously assess the needs of the blind and visually impaired community, designing and delivering innovative programs that address these needs. Lead efforts to expand and enhance services available to clients. + Financial Stewardship:Oversee the Department’s financial health by ensuring sound fiscal management and long-term sustainability. Lead fundraising initiatives, including grant writing and securing external funding to support program growth. + Advocacy and Public Engagement:Advocate for the rights, opportunities, and full participation of individuals with visual impairments at the local, state, and federal levels. Promote policies and initiatives that further accessibility and equality across Iowa. + Team Leadership:Mentor, inspire, and lead a diverse team of professionals, cultivating a collaborative, inclusive, and results-oriented work culture focused on excellence in service delivery. Benefits: At the State of Iowa, we are committed to your well-being. As a valued team member, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes: + Paid Time Off:Enjoy vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave with no limits on sick leave accrual. + Great Benefits:Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options. + Retirement Plan:IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan. + Flexibility:Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care). + Life Insurance:Free Life Insurance. + Support:Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs. To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit ourbenefits webpage. Why Join Us? The Iowa Department for the Blind is a trailblazer in advocating for the rights and independence of individuals with visual impairments. As Director, you will be instrumental in shaping the future of services for Iowans who are blind or have low vision. By leading strategic initiatives in education, employment, and community integration, you’ll help create pathways for greater accessibility and opportunity. This is your chance to lead a talented, mission-driven team dedicated to breaking down barriers and expanding opportunities for all. Ready to Make a Difference? If you are an experienced leader with a strong commitment to public service and a passion for empowering individuals with disabilities, we encourage you to apply. Join us in our mission to promote independence, accessibility, and equality for all Iowans with visual impairments. Minimum Qualification Requirements Master’s degree in public administration, social work, disability studies, or a related field AND 5 years leadership experience with programs that service individuals with disabilities. Additional Qualification Requirements + At least 5 years of leadership experience managing programs or services for individuals with disabilities, with a particular focus on individuals who are blind or have low vision. + Demonstrated success in leading public or non-profit organizations, including managing staff, budgets, and program implementation. + Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills with a proven ability to build consensus, inspire teams, and engage a diverse range of stakeholders. + Expertise in grant writing, fundraising, and securing resources to support organizational growth. + In-depth understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments and a demonstrated commitment to promoting independence and equality. + Experience collaborating with government agencies, non-profits, and community partners to achieve strategic goals. 01 Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa. + Yes - I understand and agree. + No 02 PLEASE READ CAREFULLY Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq? + No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq + Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq Required Question Agency State of Iowa Agency 131 Iowa Department for the Blind Address 524 4th St Des Moines, Iowa, 50309 Website https://blind.iowa.gov/ Apply Please verify your email addressVerify Email