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Executive Director

Recruitment #22-009609-0002

Introduction

This is an Executive Service position which serves at the pleasure of the Maryland 529 Board.  

All candidates will be subject to a background investigation to include criminal and credit history.

***To be considered for this position all applicants must submit a resume as well***

GRADE

9909

LOCATION OF POSITION

Maryland 529
217 E. Redwood Street 
Baltimore, MD  21202

POSITION DUTIES

The Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer is the head of the independent State Agency that is responsible for administering three IRC Section 529 Savings Plans; the Maryland Prepaid College Trust, the Maryland College Investment Plan, and the Maryland Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE). The Maryland Prepaid College Trust (MPCT) is a “defined benefit” type plan and the Maryland College Investment Plan (MCIP) is a “defined contribution” type plan, both of which are designed to provide ways for families to save for future college expenses and reduce reliance on future student loan debt. In addition, the Maryland 529 agency is responsible for administering the Maryland Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program that helps individuals with disabilities save money and pay for qualified disability-related expenses without jeopardizing state or federal means-tested benefits such as SSI or Medicaid.

The Chief Executive Officer reports to the Maryland 529 Board, which includes the State Treasurer, State Comptroller, Chancellor of the University System of Maryland, the Secretary of the Maryland Higher Education Commission, the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Disabilities, the Superintendent of Schools, and five public members appointed by the Governor.


Responsibilities include: 

Planning, organizing, directing and controlling all operations of the Plans. Creating and maintaining a positive work environment and culture for the Maryland 529 agency and staff. Establishing overall Plan goals to accomplish the mission as defined by the Board. Ensuring the management, accounting, recordkeeping and oversight of Plan financial transactions meet the requirements of Board fiduciary responsibilities and all national accounting and recordkeeping standards. Designing and developing features and enhancements to the MPCT, MCIP and ABLE. Oversee Plan Administrators  to include: planning, organizing, directing and controlling all operations of the Plans. Managing personnel resources of the Agency, including hiring and training staff. Oversee procurement and management of a wide range of outsourced services, including investment managers, financial advisors, actuaries and marketing representatives, as well as program managers for the MCPT, MCIP and ABLE. Providing strategic leadership and financial input, framing issues appropriately for the Board to support informed decision making. Enabling the effective functioning of the Board through accurate and timely reporting and advising on matters such as matters for approval, current significant issues, updates on strategic goals and plan implementation, key performance indicators for the agency’s organizational units, risk and compliance updates, and any other matters for noting. Creating and maintaining a positive reputation for Maryland 529. Leading the development of a Marketing and Public Relations Plan. Oversee the development and advocacy of State legislation to enhance the Plans. Participate in drafting federal legislation and regulatory polices to enhance 529 plans nationally. Serve as lead representative for Maryland’s 529 plans in the national industry association, the College Savings Plans Network. Monitor current industry trends, changes and best practices in order to provide timely and relevant advice to the Board



· Proven experience in financial data analysis with strong financial management background and working with financial, investment and accounting staff to oversee transactions and recordkeeping. 

· Proven experience in public speaking and giving presentations to groups such as government or elected officials, corporate boards, community leaders, sponsors and/or other key stakeholder groups. 

· Proven ability to work effectively as a team member, leader and in creating a positive workplace environment and culture. · Proven ability to work independently, apply and interpret laws, policies and procedures and use of good judgment in evaluating and making decisions. 

· Proven ability to effectively prioritize tasks, estimate time frames, meet deadlines, plan and use available resources, and coordinate work assignments with others. 

· Proven experience in working with a Board and Senior Management Team. 

· Proven experience in Maryland State procurement and contract management. 

· Proven ability to communicate effectively and maintain a courteous attitude toward the public and employees. 

· Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services including needs assessment techniques, quality service standards, alternative delivery systems and customer satisfaction evaluation techniques.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Master’s Degree in business or related field

Experience:7-10 years of progressive management experience in a financial or executive leadership position

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Understanding of and experience in managing IRC Section 529 plans

Financial operations and management background 

Understanding of and experience in oversight of outsourced services and programs

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.

BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be submitted to: Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, 301 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Paper application materials must be received in our office by the closing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at Application.Help@maryland.gov or 410-767-4850, MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.

People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.




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