Leave and Care Director

Leave and Care Director

**Initial review of applications is scheduled for November 22. It is in the applicant's best interest to apply before then.**

The ideal candidate for the Leave and Care Director position is a visionary leader passionate about public service and committed to equity in the way we provide services as well as how we take care of our internal workforce. They excel in strategic planning, possess a deep understanding of policy development, and can foster strong relationships with diverse stakeholders. This innovative thinker navigates complex regulatory environments with ease and drives continuous improvement in program delivery. Additionally, the role demands significant customer care/call center experience and the ability to engage diverse audiences with kindness and respect.

About ESD: 

At the Employment Security Department, we are dedicated to contributing to healthy communities by providing equitable access to resources that improve economic security. Our mission is to support Washington residents through innovative programs like Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) and WA Cares. 

Why Join Us?

Make a Difference: Play a vital role in programs that enhance economic security for Washington residents.

Innovate with Us: Join a dynamic team that thrives on continuous improvement and agile innovation.

Embrace Diversity: Be part of a culture that champions equity, inclusion, and respect.

Position Overview: 

The Leave and Care Director provides leadership and strategic direction to the PFML and WA Cares teams. This role is crucial in overseeing the PFML program and managing key aspects of WA Cares, the first state-run long-term care insurance program, ensuring the integrity of public resources and the successful delivery of these essential programs.

Leading one of the nation’s first Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) programs is a groundbreaking opportunity to shape the future of social support systems. This pioneering initiative provides crucial financial assistance to workers during significant life events, such as the birth of a child, serious health conditions, or caring for a family member. The impact on clients is profound, offering them economic stability and peace of mind during challenging times. 

For broader populations, the program promotes equity and inclusivity, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have access to necessary leave benefits. By spearheading such a transformative program, leaders can drive systemic change, fostering healthier communities and set a precedent for other states to follow. This role not only enhances the well-being of individuals but also strengthens the social fabric, contributing to a more resilient and compassionate society.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy: Provide strategic vision and direction for the PFML and WA Cares programs, ensuring continuous improvement and stability.

Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including legislators, partner agencies, advisory committees and the public.

Program Management: Oversee the operationalization of laws, define processes and technology, and manage a division of over 500 employees.

Equity (Download PDF reader) & Inclusion: Advance equity within the Leave and Care Division and actively enhance equity within ESD.

Financial Oversight: Monitor and manage budgets, ensuring adequate resources for divisional operations and priorities.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a related field. AND Five years of progressive management experience leading managers above first-line supervisors.

Skills & Abilities: Strong communication skills, ability to analyze complex data, and experience in coaching and mentoring management staff. Proven ability to develop and manage budgets and cultivate strategic partnerships.

Technical Proficiency: Understanding of how technology can enhance business operations and customer service.

Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced degree in business management, public administration, or law.

Executive-level experience managing a large operation.

Additional Requirements of Employment:

• Must be able to pass Unemployment Insurance (UI) & Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) claim and fraud check.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel the equivalent of up to two weeks per month within Washington and occasionally out of state.

Please submit only the required documents as noted below and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy.   

Please submit your Cover Letter and Resume with your Online Application through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete.

Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others, and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship.  We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.

Opportunity for All

We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program.  Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Sanyu.Tushabe@esd.wa.gov or the Talent Acquisition Team.

If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711.

Candidates who are offered a job with ESD must possess work authorization which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future.