Founding PFML Program Executive Leader

DHRM; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 162,000 - 198,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Employment Commission seeks an Assistant Deputy Commissioner for PFML to lead the founding team and stand up Virginia's pioneering paid family and medical leave program. You will guide claims, contributions, technology, and customer care, shaping staffing, policy, and service delivery ahead of the December 2028 benefit launch.

Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner, you will drive governance, performance metrics, and stakeholder engagement while ensuring compliance and fiscal stewardship

Qualifications

• Extensive executive leadership experience standing up, scaling, or transforming large public benefit programs.
• Deep knowledge of paid family and medical leave or related social insurance program design and operations.
• Ability to build organizational structures, staffing plans, and governance for a new program from the ground up.
• Skilled in change management, multi-stakeholder engagement, and complex regulatory environments.
• Strong financial acumen for trust funds, budgeting, and performance management.
• Experience leading digital service delivery, data-driven operations, and technology modernization.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership to stand up and operate Virginia’s PFML program.
• Lead the founding leadership team and oversee day-to-day program operations.
• Coordinate governance, performance, and policy development across all program areas.
• Ensure readiness for milestones including premium rate-setting and benefit payments.
• Build relationships with legislators, employers, and stakeholders; ensure compliance.

Skills

Executive leadership

Public benefit programs

Change management

Budget and financial acumen

Policy and regulatory navigation

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Team building at senior level

Job description

Virginia Employment Commission seeks an Assistant Deputy Commissioner for PFML to lead the founding team and stand up Virginia's pioneering paid family and medical leave program. You will guide claims, contributions, technology, and customer care, shaping staffing, policy, and service delivery ahead of the December 2028 benefit launch.

Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner, you will drive governance, performance metrics, and stakeholder engagement while ensuring compliance and fiscal stewardship