Executive Director, PSERS

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania; Harrisburg, Town of Brookhaven (Dauphin County, NY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a dynamic Executive Director to lead its operations and strategic initiatives. This pivotal role involves overseeing a substantial budget and a large team, ensuring compliance, and advising the Board on critical issues. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in leadership within large organizations and a passion for public service. This full-time position offers potential for telework and requires a blend of strategic vision and operational expertise to drive the organization forward. Join a mission-driven team dedicated to enhancing public trust and delivering exceptional service.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business or related field required.
• Relevant leadership experience in a large organization is essential.

Responsibilities

• Ensure documentation for Board meetings and legal compliance.
• Advise the Board on governance and financial issues.
• Oversee program planning and administration.

Skills

Leadership in large organizations

Governance and compliance knowledge

Investment performance monitoring

Strategic planning

Stakeholder relationship management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or public administration

Advanced degree (MBA, JD)

Job description

THE POSITION

This position serves as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, as well as the Secretary of the Board. Reporting to the Board and directly to the Chairperson, the Executive Director is responsible for an administrative budget of $106.3 million and overseeing nearly 400 staff members. The Chief Investment Officer and Chief Counsel report to the Board and are administratively accountable to the Executive Director. The Chief Audit Officer has a dual reporting role, reporting to both the Audit, Compliance and Risk Committee and the Executive Director.

PSERS is a governmental, cost-sharing, multi-employer pension plan funded by contributions from public school employers, the Commonwealth, and school employees. It operates as a quasi-independent agency governed by a 15-member Board of Trustees, consisting of ex officio members, appointees, and elected representatives from constituent groups.

The System has shown consistent improvement in its funded status, with a funded ratio of 64.8% as of June 30, 2024, projected to exceed 80% by 2032 with continued contributions and favorable investment returns. PSERS manages its assets through internal staff and external managers, achieving an 8.14% net rate of return in FY 2024, surpassing the policy index.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

As Executive Director, your responsibilities will include:

• Ensuring proper documentation and notices for Board and Committee meetings
• Collaborating with the Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Counsel to ensure legal compliance
• Advising the Board on governance, financial, economic, and political issues
• Overseeing program planning and administration
• Developing policies for Board approval
• Monitoring investment performance and safeguarding assets
• Leading strategic plan implementation aligned with the Board’s priorities
• Aligning resources with strategic goals
• Recruiting and developing a professional team
• Maintaining relationships with stakeholders and building public trust
• Supporting recruitment of key officers and representing PSERS externally

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time position with hours from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday
• Potential for telework depending on operational needs, with specific technology and location requirements
• Salary is commensurate with experience

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, public administration, or related field
• Relevant leadership experience in a large organization

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to perform essential job functions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (MBA, JD)
• Knowledge of investments and actuarial principles
• Experience with retirement plans and change management
• Proven collaboration with Boards

Application Process:

• Include a cover letter and resume
• Submit by the closing date; late applications will not be considered
• Failure to meet application requirements may disqualify candidates

Veterans and Accommodations:

• Veterans’ preference under Pennsylvania law
• Disability accommodations available upon request

The Commonwealth promotes equal employment opportunity and encourages diverse candidates to apply.