Policy Director

Policy Director

The Virginia Department of Social Services has an exciting opportunity to join our team as the new Policy Director! The Policy Director reports directly to the Deputy Commissioner of Policy and Administration and manages the overall agency policy agenda of the Department. This position proactively cultivates agency policy priorities, serves as the lead interface and representative for all outside policy connections including but not limited to the Governor's Office and the General Assembly, and is responsible for the research and communication to DSS Leadership of policy positions and trends within the realm of social services and state and federal policy.

The Policy Director develops a cohesive policy and legislative strategy on behalf of the Department to achieve goals and enhancements to programming and operations. The Policy Director leads the overall policy work of the department and interfaces with policy analysts across the agency to develop a single space within the agency to cultivate, articulate, and manage a shared policy agenda. This position convenes working groups to coordinate and inform the policy agenda. This position works closely with think tanks, legislative associations related to human services, other state and federal entities, and university public policy programs to understand trends across the policy spectrum. The Policy Director oversees the Office of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs to track and communicate legislative changes and proposals. This position also works closely with the Virginia League of Social Services Executives, particularly the League's legislative committee to partner on shared priorities.

In addition to a rewarding work experience, VDSS offers excellent health and life insurance benefits, pre-tax spending accounts, state funded Short- and Long-Term Disability, paid holidays, vacation, tuition assistance, free wellness programs, and a state retirement plan with options for tax-deferred retirement savings including employer matching Employee Benefits.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Considerable experience in policy development, analysis, or advocacy related to human and social services, benefit programs, and child welfare.
• Extensive experience working with Virginia's General Assembly, and legislative and state budget processes.
• Demonstrated experience with legislative or regulatory processes and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience managing policy programs or initiatives and leading teams.

Additional Considerations :

Contact Information :

Name : VDSS Division of Human Resources

Email : dssrecruitment@dss.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process.