Director of Employer Contributions - Unemployment Insurance (UI)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Director of Employer Contributions - Unemployment Insurance (UI)

Company: Virginia Employment Commission (VEC)

Location: Henrico, Virginia (Richmond Area)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Revenue Operations / Financial Operations Management

Date Posted: September 10, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Executive leadership role overseeing the entire Unemployment Insurance (UI) employer contributions lifecycle, ensuring fiscal integrity of the Virginia UI Trust Fund.

• Responsible for strategic planning and execution of UI employer taxation, including registration, liability determination, and collections.

• Drives organizational transition and system separation for UI and Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) programs without service disruption.

• Accountable for federal conformity and performance against U.S. Department of Labor UI tax measures.

• Manages a critical function that impacts employers, state finances, and workforce stability across Virginia.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leader within a government agency, focusing on complex financial operations and regulatory compliance. The emphasis on organizational transition and program separation suggests a significant change management component, requiring strong operational strategy and execution skills. The "Financial Services Manager III" state role title indicates a high level of responsibility and expertise expected.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership and strategic direction for all aspects of UI employer contributions, from initial registration to final payment reconciliation.

• Oversee the end-to-end UI employer tax lifecycle, including:

  • Employer registration, liability determination, and successorship management.
  • Processing of quarterly tax and wage reports and payments.
  • Management of experience rating, benefit charging, and annual tax rate assignments.
  • Accounts receivable reconciliation, delinquency tracking, and collections enforcement.
  • Field audit, examination, and program integrity initiatives, including identifying worker misclassification and improper experience rating transfers.
  • Management of the employer resolution (phone/service) function to ensure clear communication and support.

• Lead the strategic separation of shared staff, systems, and processes between the UI Employer Contributions and PFML Employer Contributions (Tax) functions, ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining operational continuity.

• Ensure compliance with all federal regulations and state laws governing UI taxation and employer responsibilities, maintaining federal conformity and meeting U.S. Department of Labor performance metrics.

• Develop and implement short- and long-range strategies to enhance organizational effectiveness, efficiency, and employer compliance within the UI tax program.

• Manage and mentor high-performance teams, fostering a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

• Analyze financial data, tax collection trends, and Trust Fund performance to identify risks, opportunities, and areas for policy and process enhancement.

• Represent the Directorate in high-stakes environments, engaging with demanding stakeholders including employers, third-party administrators, federal partners, legislative bodies, and executive leadership.

• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to represent the Directorate before state officials, legislative committees, appeals bodies, and employer audiences.

• Leverage technological advancements to improve compliance, enhance the employer experience, and streamline operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The detailed breakdown of responsibilities highlights the operational breadth required. The emphasis on "program integrity," "worker misclassification," and "improper transfers of experience rating" indicates a strong need for analytical and investigative skills within a compliance framework. The dual responsibility of managing existing operations while leading a significant organizational transition is a key challenge.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, or a related field is typically expected for a role of this caliber.

• Advanced degrees or relevant professional certifications may be preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in financial management and operations, with a significant focus on tax administration.

• Proven experience in leading and managing high-performance teams, including team restructuring and development.

• Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic plans to improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

• Experience managing complex transitions or organizational separations is critical for this role. Required Skills:

• Tax Administration Expertise: In-depth knowledge of insurance or employer taxation, including liability determination, taxable wage base application, quarterly tax and wage reporting, experience rating, benefit charging, accounts receivable management, and field audit processes.

• Federal Conformity & Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of federal and state laws, regulations, and accounting principles governing employer liability, tax collection, debt collection, worker classification, and confidentiality of wage and tax information. This includes knowledge of the Federal or State Tax Act and Social Security Act provisions.

• Leadership & Program Management: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage high-performance teams, and to develop and execute strategic initiatives that drive organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

• Organizational Transition & Change Management: Demonstrated capability to successfully separate combined functions into distinct operating structures, reallocating staff, workload, systems, and communications while sustaining service levels and staff morale.

• Financial & Analytical Acumen: Strong ability to assess tax, receivable, and Trust Fund data, identify trends, detect fraud indicators, and translate findings into actionable policy and process improvements.

• Stakeholder Management: Expertise in managing relationships with diverse and demanding stakeholders in complex, high-stakes environments, including employers, government agencies, and legislative bodies.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent the Directorate effectively before various audiences, including state officials, legislative committees, and employer groups.

• Technological Proficiency: Working understanding of modern technology's role in improving compliance and employer experience, such as employer self-service portals, wage-reporting intake systems, payment processing, and audit case management.

Preferred Skills:

• Direct experience in a state unemployment insurance employer tax function, including experience rating and field audit.

• Knowledge of Trust Fund solvency mechanics, tax rate schedules, and forecasting.

• Track record of implementing data-driven, user-centered improvements to employer-facing processes and training.

• Experience in progressively responsible roles within state government, particularly related to Commonwealth fiscal or tax rules and regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are extensive, emphasizing a blend of deep technical expertise in tax and regulatory compliance with robust leadership and strategic change management capabilities. The "10+ Years" experience level is a strong indicator of the seniority and complexity of this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Demonstrate experience in analyzing existing tax collection, reporting, or compliance processes, identifying inefficiencies or compliance gaps, and implementing data-driven solutions. Highlight measurable improvements in accuracy, timeliness, or revenue collection.

• System Implementation/Separation Experience: Showcase projects involving the implementation, enhancement, or separation of financial systems, particularly those related to tax administration, employer portals, or payment processing. Detail your role and the outcomes achieved.

• Regulatory Compliance Frameworks: Provide examples of how you have ensured adherence to complex federal and state regulations, managed audit processes, or implemented program integrity measures.

• Data Analysis & Reporting Examples: Include examples of reports, dashboards, or analytical frameworks developed to monitor Trust Fund health, collection performance, delinquency rates, or audit findings. Quantify the impact of these insights.

• Change Management Project Documentation: Present evidence of leading teams through significant organizational or process changes, illustrating strategies used to manage resistance, maintain morale, and achieve desired outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Document your approach to designing, mapping, and optimizing complex financial workflows, such as employer registration, tax remittance, or delinquency management.

• System Integration & Data Flow: Illustrate your understanding of how different systems (e.g., CRM, ERP, tax processing software) interact and how data integrity is maintained across them, especially during system separation or integration projects.

• Performance Measurement & Reporting: Detail your methods for establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) for tax operations, developing reporting mechanisms, and using data to drive continuous improvement and strategic decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior operations role, especially in government, a portfolio demonstrating tangible process improvements, successful system navigation (including separation), and strong analytical capabilities is crucial. The emphasis on "program integrity" and "federal conformity" means that documentation of compliance and risk mitigation strategies will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The hiring range is specified as "Commensurate to $160,000." This indicates that the maximum annual salary for this position is $160,000, with the actual offer dependent on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

• Based on industry benchmarks for Director-level roles in government financial management and tax administration in the Richmond, Virginia area, a salary of up to $160,000 is competitive, reflecting the senior leadership and specialized expertise required. This range aligns with senior financial services managers in public sector roles requiring extensive experience in complex compliance and operational management. Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans are standard for Commonwealth of Virginia employees.

• Retirement Benefits: Access to a robust retirement savings plan (e.g., Virginia Retirement System - VRS), offering long-term financial security.

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid leave, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continued education to enhance skills in tax administration, leadership, and public sector management.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Options for life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

• Other Benefits: Potential for other benefits such as flexible spending accounts, employee assistance programs, and wellness initiatives.

Working Hours:

• The standard workweek is 40 hours.

• The role may involve extended hours to meet operational demands, particularly during quarterly filing deadlines and federal reporting cycles, as noted in the job description.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specified salary cap of $160,000 is a key piece of information. The benefits listed are typical for state government positions in Virginia and are competitive for senior roles. The mention of potential extended hours is important for candidates to consider.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government / Public Sector (Unemployment Insurance and Workforce Services)

Company Size: The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) is a large state agency, employing a significant number of individuals across its various departments and service centers. This scale suggests a structured environment with established processes and a wide reach.

Founded: The Virginia Employment Commission was established in 1938, indicating a long-standing history of service to the Commonwealth of Virginia. This longevity suggests a stable organization with deep roots in public service.

Team Structure:

• Directorate Leadership: This role is a senior leadership position within the UI program, likely reporting to a Deputy Commissioner or Commissioner of the VEC.

• Direct Reports: The Director will manage a team of managers and supervisors responsible for specific functions within UI employer contributions (e.g., registration, collections, audits, reporting).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The Director will collaborate closely with other VEC divisions (e.g., Claims, Benefits, IT, Legal) and external stakeholders such as the Department of Labor, other state agencies, employers, and third-party administrators. The specific mention of partnering with the Director of PFML Employer Contributions highlights a critical, ongoing cross-functional relationship.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on analyzing financial data, tax performance, and compliance metrics to inform strategy and policy.

• Process Optimization: A focus on continuous improvement of workflows, systems, and service delivery to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and employer experience.

• Regulatory Compliance & Program Integrity: Strict adherence to federal and state laws, with a strong emphasis on maintaining the integrity of the UI Trust Fund and preventing fraud or misuse.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactive management of relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders to ensure program effectiveness and public trust.

Company Website: www.VEC.virginia.gov

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a state agency like the VEC implies a mission-driven environment focused on public service. The organizational structure is likely hierarchical, and decision-making processes may be more formalized than in the private sector. The emphasis on collaboration, especially with the PFML program, suggests a need for strong interpersonal and partnership-building skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Director-level position, representing a significant leadership role within the state government's operations and financial management framework. It signifies a transition from managing specific functions to overseeing entire operational domains and driving strategic initiatives.

Reporting Structure: The Director of UI Employer Contributions will report to a higher-level executive within the Virginia Employment Commission, such as a Deputy Commissioner or the Commissioner. This position holds significant authority and responsibility over a critical revenue-generating and compliance function.

Operations Impact: This role has a profound impact on the financial health of the Virginia UI Trust Fund, directly influencing the state's ability to provide unemployment benefits. Effective management of employer contributions ensures solvency, supports economic stability, and upholds the state's compliance with federal mandates. Strategic leadership in this role can lead to improved employer compliance, reduced administrative costs, and enhanced public trust in the UI system.

Growth Opportunities:

• Expanded Leadership Roles: Potential to advance to higher executive positions within the VEC or other state agencies, overseeing broader financial operations, compliance, or program management.

• Policy Development Influence: Opportunity to shape state policies related to unemployment insurance taxation and employer compliance, influencing the economic landscape of Virginia.

• Specialization in PFML Transition: Leading the separation of PFML contributions offers a unique opportunity to gain expertise in establishing new, complex governmental programs and systems, which can be highly transferable.

• Cross-Agency Collaboration: Opportunities to lead or participate in initiatives that involve collaboration across multiple state government departments, broadening experience in inter-agency operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a pathway to senior executive leadership within public service, with opportunities to influence policy and manage large-scale operational transformations. The specific challenge of separating the PFML program provides a unique growth opportunity in program establishment and change management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is located at the VEC Central Office, suggesting a professional office environment typical of state government operations. This environment is generally structured and may involve a blend of individual work, team collaboration, and stakeholder meetings.

Office Location(s): VEC Central Office, Henrico, Virginia (Richmond Area). This location provides access to the resources and infrastructure of the state capital region.

Workspace Context:

• Professional Office Setting: Expect a standard office setup with cubicles or private offices, shared meeting rooms, and access to necessary office equipment.

• Technology Integration: The role requires proficiency with modern technology, including employer self-service portals, internal case management systems, and standard office productivity software. Access to robust IT infrastructure is expected.

• Collaborative Environment: While individual work is necessary, the role emphasizes collaboration with direct reports, peers, and external stakeholders. Expect regular team meetings, strategic planning sessions, and presentations. The need to partner with the PFML Director also implies a highly collaborative day-to-day working relationship.

Work Schedule:

• Standard work schedule is 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required, with the possibility of extended hours during peak operational periods such as quarterly filing deadlines and federal reporting cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a large state government agency, emphasizing structured operations and compliance. The need for collaboration, especially with the PFML program, suggests a dynamic team environment despite the formal setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed based on the information provided to ensure minimum qualifications are met. It is crucial to detail all relevant experience and skills.

• First Interview (Phone/Video): May focus on assessing core qualifications, leadership experience, and understanding of tax administration and change management. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with managing complex operations and leading teams.

• Second Interview (On-site/In-person): Likely a panel interview with senior leadership, including potential supervisors and peers. This stage will delve deeper into strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, stakeholder management skills, and experience with organizational transitions.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare a presentation or respond to a case study related to operational challenges, strategic planning, or change management within a tax administration context. This is an opportunity to showcase portfolio examples.

• Final Interview: May involve a final discussion with the hiring authority to assess cultural fit, leadership style, and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project or initiative, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., percentage increase in collections, reduction in processing time, cost savings).

• Highlight Change Management: Showcase specific examples of leading teams through significant organizational changes, such as system implementations, process re-engineering, or functional separations like the one required for PFML. Detail your approach to communication, training, and managing employee morale.

• Demonstrate Strategic Vision: Include examples of strategic planning processes you've led, demonstrating how you translated broad goals into actionable operational plans and achieved measurable outcomes.

• Focus on Compliance & Integrity: Present case studies that illustrate your commitment to regulatory compliance, program integrity, and risk mitigation within financial operations.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience relevant to tax administration, unemployment insurance, and public sector finance. If you have experience with program separation or establishing new operational functions, highlight this prominently.

Challenge Preparation:

• Operational Strategy: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach the strategic separation of UI and PFML employer contributions. Think about key risks, critical success factors, and communication strategies.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle issues like declining tax revenue, significant employer non-compliance, or managing internal team conflicts during a major organizational change.

• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating how you would manage relationships with demanding stakeholders, such as large employers, legislative bodies, or federal auditors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely rigorous, given the seniority of the role. A well-prepared portfolio that specifically addresses the change management and tax administration aspects will be critical. Candidates should anticipate behavioral, situational, and strategic questions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Government Financial Systems: Experience with state-specific financial management systems for tax collection, accounting, and revenue processing is essential.

• CRM/Case Management Systems: Proficiency with systems used for managing employer accounts, inquiries, and audit cases (e.g., Salesforce, custom government platforms).

• ERP Systems: Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems for managing financial data and operations.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel (for data analysis, reporting, forecasting), Word (for policy, communication), PowerPoint (for presentations), and Outlook (for communication and calendar management).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence Tools: Experience with BI platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or similar government-specific tools) for data visualization, dashboard creation, and performance monitoring.

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to use statistical software or advanced Excel functions for analyzing large datasets related to tax revenue, wage reporting, and collections.

• Reporting Frameworks: Understanding of how to develop and manage reporting frameworks for compliance, performance metrics, and financial health.

CRM & Automation:

• Tax Processing Software: Familiarity with specialized software for processing tax returns, payments, and managing employer accounts.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Understanding of how automation can streamline processes like employer registration, payment reminders, or audit case assignment.

• Integration Platforms: Knowledge of how different systems can be integrated to ensure seamless data flow, especially relevant for the PFML program separation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the government context, the specific tools may be proprietary or legacy systems. The emphasis should be on the type of functionality and the candidate's ability to adapt and learn new systems, particularly those related to financial management, tax processing, and data analytics. The need to separate systems for UI and PFML suggests an understanding of system architecture and data migration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Public Service & Mission-Driven: A core value is serving the citizens of Virginia by ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of the unemployment insurance system.

• Accountability & Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of financial accountability, regulatory compliance, and ethical conduct is paramount to protect the UI Trust Fund.

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: A commitment to optimizing operational processes, leveraging technology, and achieving organizational goals with available resources.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where teams work effectively across departments and with external partners to achieve common objectives, especially critical during the PFML program separation.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data and analytics to inform strategic decisions, measure performance, and drive continuous improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Emphasis on building strong working relationships with other VEC departments and external agencies (e.g., PFML program leadership) to ensure cohesive program delivery and operational alignment.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent communication, feedback, and knowledge sharing among team members and across departments to address challenges and foster innovation.

• Process Improvement Culture: A collaborative approach to reviewing and refining processes, seeking input from team members and stakeholders to identify best practices and drive efficiency.

• Stakeholder Engagement: A proactive and responsive approach to engaging with employers, administrators, and government officials to build trust and ensure program understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture within a state agency like VEC is typically characterized by a strong sense of public service, adherence to regulations, and a structured, collaborative environment. The specific emphasis on separating UI and PFML programs highlights a critical need for strong, direct collaboration with another senior leader.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Organizational Transition Complexity: Successfully separating the UI and PFML employer contributions functions, including staff, systems, and processes, without disrupting service to employers or collections into the Trust Fund, is a significant undertaking.

• Balancing Compliance and Service: Ensuring strict adherence to federal and state regulations while providing efficient and user-friendly services to a diverse employer base.

• Managing Large-Scale Financial Operations: Overseeing the accurate and timely collection and reconciliation of substantial tax revenues and managing accounts receivable for a large number of employers.

• Adapting to Evolving Regulations and Technology: Staying abreast of changes in UI laws, federal requirements, and technological advancements to maintain program effectiveness and efficiency.

• Resource Management: Effectively managing budgets, staff, and technology resources within the constraints of state government operations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Program Establishment Expertise: Gaining hands-on experience in architecting and launching a new operational structure for PFML contributions, a valuable skill set for future government leadership roles.

• Advanced Change Management: Deepening expertise in leading complex organizational restructurings and system separations in a public sector environment.

• Public Policy Influence: Opportunity to contribute to and influence public policy related to unemployment insurance and workforce development in Virginia.

• Executive Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs and opportunities for mentorship within the state government structure.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential to attend relevant conferences or pursue certifications in public administration, financial management, or tax law.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is the successful execution of the UI/PFML program separation. This presents a unique opportunity for the selected candidate to gain extensive experience in program establishment and large-scale operational transformation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading the separation of the UI and PFML employer contribution functions. What are your top three priorities and potential risks?"

  • Preparation: Outline a phased approach, focusing on clear communication, stakeholder alignment, data integrity, and risk mitigation. Emphasize your change management strategy.

• "How would you ensure federal conformity and maintain VEC's performance against U.S. Department of Labor UI tax measures while managing this transition?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your understanding of federal requirements and how you would embed compliance checks and performance monitoring into both existing and new operational structures.

• "Imagine a scenario where a significant portion of employers are experiencing issues with the new reporting system during the transition. How would you address this to minimize disruption and maintain employer trust?"

  • Preparation: Focus on proactive communication, robust support systems (help desks, training), rapid issue resolution, and data-driven analysis to identify root causes.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you believe are the most critical values for a Director in a public service organization like the VEC, and how would you instill them in your team?"

  • Preparation: Research VEC's stated values (public service, accountability, efficiency, collaboration). Discuss how you lead by example and foster these values through performance management and team development.

• "How do you approach stakeholder management, particularly with demanding groups like employers or legislative bodies, in a government context?"

  • Preparation: Provide examples of successful stakeholder engagement, emphasizing transparency, clear communication, and a focus on shared goals.

• "Describe your experience with data-driven decision-making in financial operations. How do you use data to drive process improvements and strategic initiatives?"

  • Preparation: Be ready to share specific examples of how you've used data analysis to identify issues, develop solutions, and measure their impact on key metrics (e.g., collections, compliance, efficiency).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio item, follow a clear structure: Problem, Your Action, Result (quantified).

• Highlight Transition Experience: If you have experience with system separation, mergers, or significant process re-engineering, make this a central theme of your presentation.

• Emphasize Impact: Clearly articulate the ROI or measurable benefits of your work, whether it's increased revenue, improved efficiency, enhanced compliance, or better stakeholder satisfaction.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Explain your role in leading teams, collaborating with stakeholders, and overcoming challenges during your projects.

• Address PFML Separation: Be prepared to discuss how your past experiences directly prepare you for the specific challenge of separating the UI and PFML functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of strategic leadership, operational excellence, and proven change management capabilities. Candidates should be ready to articulate their vision for the UI employer contributions function and their plan for the PFML program separation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application and resume electronically through the provided website (careers.pageuppeople.com). Ensure all fields are filled accurately and comprehensively.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in tax administration, financial management, leadership, change management, and public sector operations. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases your most relevant achievements, focusing on process improvements, operational efficiency gains, successful system implementations or separations, and stakeholder management. Quantify your impact whenever possible.

• Research VEC: Understand the Virginia Employment Commission's mission, structure, and its role in the Commonwealth's economy. Familiarize yourself with the UI program and the new PFML program.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral, situational, and strategic questions, particularly those related to managing complex operational transitions and ensuring regulatory compliance. Practice presenting your portfolio items clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.