Director of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

This position is responsible for leading, coordinating, and implementing programs and initiatives under the WIOA, Title I to enhance workforce development, employment opportunities, and economic growth within the state. This pivotal role requires a visionary leader with a deep understanding of workforce development policies, effective management skills, and a commitment to advancing the employment prospects of individuals across Iowa. This position requires travel across the Northeast Iowa Workforce Development Board Region with a presence in each American Job Center Office on a bi weekly basis.

Serve as the primary representative for Title I initiatives at state and regional core partner meetings, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of Title I schools and students are effectively communicated.

Act as the primary liaison between Title I programs and NEIWDB, facilitating communication and collaboration to align educational and workforce development goals.

Lead and coordinate a diverse team of workforce consultants across a large 20-county region to implement and enhance education and employment initiatives. This role requires a strong skill set in communication, collaboration, and strategic planning to effectively address the unique challenges and opportunities within each county.

Manage a minimal caseload of participants to ensure full understanding of adult, dislocated worker, and youth programming.

Develop and implement strategic plans, policies, and initiatives to align with the goals and objectives of the WIOA, Title I program in Iowa. Provide visionary leadership to enhance workforce development efforts and foster collaboration among stakeholders.

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Human Services, Education, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.

Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership and supervisory experience in workforce development, human services, or related fields, with demonstrated expertise in program management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement.

Knowledge of federal and state workforce development policies, regulations, and funding mechanisms, particularly the WIOA, Title I program.

Must possess valid driver’s license.

Oversee the administration, implementation, and evaluation of WIOA, Title I programs and services across the Northeast Iowa Region of the state. Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, policies, and guidelines.

Cultivate and maintain effective partnerships with government agencies, educational institutions, community organizations, employers, and other key stakeholders to support workforce development initiatives and address the needs of job seekers and employers.

Manage fiscal resources effectively, including budget planning, grant management, and allocation of funds to support WIOA, Title I programs and services. Identify opportunities for securing additional funding and resources to expand program offerings and enhance impact.

Develop performance metrics, data collection systems, and evaluation mechanisms to assess the effectiveness and outcomes of WIOA, Title I programs. Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making, identify areas for improvement, and optimize program performance.

Provide leadership and guidance to staff members responsible for delivering WIOA, Title I services. Foster a culture of continuous learning, professional development, and accountability to maximize team performance and achieve organizational goals.

Serve as a spokesperson and advocate for workforce development issues and initiatives at the state and national levels. Engage with policymakers, elected officials, and community leaders to promote awareness, garner support, and influence policy decisions related to workforce development and employment.

Attend and actively participate in all scheduled core partner meetings, both locally and regionally, ensuring representation of Title I interests and initiatives. Collaborate with core partners to develop action plans that address the needs of the region and leverage resources and expertise from the group.