Vice President Communications & Operations

Background on NASWA

The National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) is the national organization representing all 50 state workforce agencies, D.C., and U.S. territories. These agencies deliver training, employment, career, and business services, in addition to administering the unemployment insurance, veteran reemployment, and labor market information programs. NASWA provides policy expertise, shares promising state practices, and promotes state innovation and leadership in workforce development.

Overview of Position

NASWA is seeking a Vice President for Communications & Operations to provide a comprehensive strategy and direction to the organization for communications and outreach. In addition, as part of the NASWA Executive Team, this position will be responsible for working with the President and CEO on operating infrastructure, workflow, staff management and development, and program planning and administration. This position engages with all business units throughout NASWA and NASWA Services, NASWA members, and partners. This person needs to be a trusted advisor and culture leader across the organization.

Communications & Outreach

• Design, develop and implement a NASWA-wide strategic outreach plan, its content and associated print, and digital materials.
• Oversee the planning, design, coordination, branding and implementation of NASWA’s products such as the website, newsletters, event calendar, periodic reports, program-specific brochures, and other communication materials.
• Identify challenges and emerging issues by working with the board and staff to recognize internal and external communications opportunities and solutions and define and execute the appropriate strategies to support them.
• Understand all facets of NASWA and State Workforce Agencies
• Manage the staff of the Meetings & Communications team.

Operations

• Work with the President & CEO and the Executive Team to help set strategic direction. Provide insight and guidance on the overall management and operation of the organization and infrastructure necessary for NASWA’s continued success and growth.
• Work to maintain and evolve NASWA’s culture, promoting NASWA’s mission and values across the organization.
• Work with the President & CEO to pace and drive organizational development, including analysis and implementation of priorities.
• Integrate operating infrastructure and functions with programmatic efforts, staff, board, and partners.
• Manage the staff of the following teams – Internal Information Systems, National Labor Exchange, and Human Resources.
• Manage other NASWA operating business units as assigned.

Competencies

• Considerable knowledge of government services and environments, ideally familiar with State Workforce Agencies or similar government programs.
• Experience hiring and leading a team.
• Proven success creating strategic plans and managing the implementation of strategic goals.
• Ability to successfully plan, organize, administer, and lead creative communication programs.
• Comprehensive knowledge of communication principles and practices, media, and informal education techniques.
• A demonstrated ability to solve problems, from big to small, drawing on best practices and creative strategies.
• Ability to consult with technical project staff, and effectively translate project outcomes and products for appropriate audiences.
• Proven ability in public speaking and the ability to represent the organization externally.
• High standards for design and writing, and strong attention to detail.
• Self-starter and self-disciplined to effectively work remotely.

Experience Required 

• 10+ years of communications, operations, and organizational culture experience, working as a member of management and/or an executive team.
• A proven leader who has led through change and growth, who can build trust across an organization and develop strong working relationships across a diverse workforce.
• Advanced ability to communicate through a variety of methods including oral, written, and various forms of media in a clear, concise, and creative manner appropriate to a variety of audiences.
• Advanced knowledge of commonly used communications software.

Education

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Journalism, English, Public or Business Administration, or a related field required.
• At least ten (10) years of relevant experience required.
• Master’s Degree in related field, preferred

Job Details

Location: The position is a remote/telework position within the United States

Title: Vice President Communications & Operations

Report To: President & CEO

Term: Full Time

Salary Range: $140,000 - $160,000 annually commensurate with experience

Benefits: NASWA offers competitive benefits including a great health care package, 401(k), educational assistance, generous time off and other options.

Travel Requirements: Frequent travel to DC, various other states, and to NASWA meetings is anticipated and will be required when travel restrictions have eased. Estimate 25-35% travel.

How to Apply: Submit cover letter and resume to HR@naswa.org by November 5, 2021

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. NASWA is an equal opportunity employer. NASWA does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, military status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, genetic information, disability, matriculation, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by Federal or District of Columbia law. Our non-discrimination policy applies to all facets of employment, including recruiting, hiring, employment, promotion, demotion, dismissal, compensation, and training opportunities

.