Executive Director

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit an application, resume, and cover letter. Preference will be given to candidates who submit an application by November 10, 2026.

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 Executive Director is responsible for departmental leadership and administration, including supervision of staff, budget management, development and administration of departmental policies and procedures, and oversight of veteran assistance programs.

Provides assistance to veterans and their families in accessing local, state, and federal benefits and serves as an advocate for veterans through community outreach, public engagement, and collaboration with community organizations and service providers.

• Must be capable of regular and predictable attendance at a specified location in order to perform assigned tasks.
• Plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates the operations, programs, and services of the Veterans Affairs Department.
• Develops and administers departmental operating policies and procedures; recommends changes to improve operational effectiveness and service delivery.
• Coordinates with governmental agencies, veterans service organizations, community organizations, and other service providers to maximize available resources and services for veterans and their families.
• Counsels, advises, and assists veterans, their survivors, and dependents regarding local, state, and federal veteran benefits and assistance programs.
• Promotes public awareness of programs and services through community outreach, public speaking, presentations, and participation in professional organizations and community events.
• Oversees the administration of veterans assistance programs, including reviewing eligibility decisions made by staff, conducting hearings, and taking corrective action as necessary.
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with County policies, contracts, and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; evaluating performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints; and resolving problems.
• Keeps abreast of changes in laws, regulations, and national trends affecting veterans; advises the Veterans Affairs Commission and provides updates regarding departmental operations, programs, and services.
• Prepares and administers the departmental budget and monitors expenditures to ensure responsible management of departmental funds.
• Coordinates with the Board of Supervisors and other County departments on matters involving departmental operations and administration, consistent with the authority of the Veterans Affairs Commission.
• Maintains required training and certification in accordance with Iowa Code Chapter 35B.6.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Supervision is received from the Veteran Affairs Commission.

• Functional and administrative supervision is exercised over the Veteran Affairs Department staff.

• Must have a Bachelor's degree (B.
  
  A.) in a related field; and a minimum of least three (3) years' experience in service delivery at a management level; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Pursuant to Iowa Code, Chapter 35B requires the Executive Director have served 90 consecutive days of active duty (unless discharged for medical reasons) during the time period of one or more of the wars or conflicts listed in the Code.
• Must have a valid Iowa Driver's License and be insurable under the County's 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 the ability to assess needs, resolve problems, and determine eligibility for veterans assistance programs.
• Knowledge of community resources, governmental agencies, and organizations providing services to veterans and their families.
• Knowledge of effective management and leadership principles and practices, including employee performance management and administration.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking, delivering presentations, and preparing…