Executive Director - Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority

The OCCDA Board is seeking an experienced public safety professional with demonstrated leadership abilities who can perform at an executive level in planning, coordinating and directing the Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority. The director will cultivate the highest level of professionalism within the department while also developing a relationship of mutual respect and trust with citizens, community leaders and coworkers.

Position Summary:

Under the general supervision of the OCCDA Administrative Policy Board, this position is responsible for the efficient and cost-effective operation of the Ottawa County 911 Central Dispatch Center. The role provides organizational leadership through ongoing strategic planning to ensure operational effectiveness. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing operational policies, preparing and managing the annual budget, overseeing the recruitment, training, and supervision of all OCCDA personnel, and assisting with union contract negotiations.

Essential Job Functions:

An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential functions. These examples do not include all of the duties which the employee may be expected to perform. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.

1. Responsible for the daily operation of Central Dispatch as informed by the OCCDA Technical Advisory Committee. Directs, coordinates, assesses and monitors operations and staff levels to ensure quality services are provided in an efficient, cost-effective and timely manner. Assists staff in resolving operational issues and researches new methods to improve services.

2. Oversees the hiring and supervision of all OCCDA staff. Develops and administers staff goals and training programs. Evaluates employees on an annual basis, assisted by the Deputy Director.

3. Develops, implements and administers personnel policies and procedures with the Deputy Director. Assists the Board in the negotiation of union contracts and enforces labor contracts as necessary.

4. Develops and coordinates long range planning, strategic plans, capital improvements, and general operations to keep the OCCDA and its services a “State of the Art” service to user agencies and Ottawa County residents.

5. Prepares and presents the annual OCCDA operating budget within the time frame necessary for proper setting of the tax levy. Ensures proper budget administration, assists in budget deliberations and presents budgetary reports and information as needed.

6. Administers fiscal policy and oversees financial activities. Works with the administrative service entity to maintain and present an accurate accounting of OCCDA funds to the Board. Assists in preparation and presentation of the annual financial statements.

7. Evaluates, recommends for purchase, maintains and oversees the operation of technical systems including radio, computer, mobile data, and enhanced 911 phone network.

8. Supervises special projects and ensures work is completed according to specifications.

9. Participates in and monitors the development of communications laws in Michigan and assures the operation of OCCDA within the law.

10. Acts as spokesperson for the OCCDA. Represents the organization to the media and at meetings and conferences. Joins and participates with professional organizations in the promotion, development, and operation of 911 and Public Safety Communications systems.

11. Coordinates and communicates with user agencies within Ottawa County to ensure the most effective operation of the dispatch center in conjunction with the Technical Advisory Committee.

12. Meets with Policy Board and various committees of the OCCDA as necessary. Ensures the preparation and presentation of agendas and materials for the Policy Board and other committees in conformance with the Open Meetings Act. Performs research, submits memos and reports and recommends policies and programs as requested.

13. Performs other duties as required.

Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority (OCCDA) offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family’s well-being, including health, dental, vision, retirement plans, paid time off, and more. Beyond the exceptional benefits, this role provides a unique opportunity to make an immediate and lasting impact in the community. As a vital part of public safety operations, your leadership and expertise will directly contribute to ensuring the safety and well-being of Ottawa County’s residents and visitors—helping first responders deliver timely, life-saving assistance when it matters most. Apply today or check out the recruitment profile for more information!

Recruitment Profile: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGe_Q0ReaY/oSKxqaESHerBcjCNEKkZoQ/view?utm_content=DAGe_Q0ReaY&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h570e8feaae

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, abilities and minimum qualifications necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job.

• A bachelor’s degree or a combination of higher education and related experience as an equivalent.
• Five or more years of experience in the operation and supervision of a fully automated central communications system or progressive experience in the operation, management, or supervision of a central communications system, preferably in a fully automated 911 dispatch environment.
• Consideration will be given to candidates with a combination of public safety, emergency management, telecommunications, or other relevant operational leadership experience.
• Substantial knowledge of the laws, ordinances, and other regulations pertaining to emergency services, 911 public safety dispatching, and related tasks.
• Knowledge of government budgeting practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of the operation of computer-aided dispatch systems, mobile radio communication technology, and other related equipment and systems.
• Skill in compiling and evaluating complex information and formulating effective policy and service recommendations.
• Skill in leading, delegating, training, and supervising the work of others in routine and emergency situations.
• Skill in the use of office equipment and technology, including computers, specialized dispatch systems, and other related software, with the ability to master new technologies.
• Ability to communicate effectively and present ideas and concepts orally and in writing, and make public presentations.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships and use good judgment, initiative, and resourcefulness when dealing with citizens, elected officials, employees, other governmental agencies, and municipal employees.
• Ability to critically assess situations, problem-solve, exercise a high degree of diplomacy, and work effectively under stress, within deadlines and changes in work priorities.
• Ability to attend meetings scheduled outside of normal business hours, travel to other locations, and respond to emergencies on a 24-hour basis.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee spends the majority of their time in an office setting with a controlled climate where they sit and work on a computer for extended period of time, communicate by telephone, email, or in person, and move around the office to travel to other locations. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move items of light weight.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet but can be moderately loud in the dispatch center.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to Relocate:

• West Olive, MI 49460: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000 - $110,000