Working Title: Executive Director of Minnesota Indian Affairs Council

Job Class: Executive Director Indian Affairs Board

Agency: Indian Affairs Council

Job ID: 90482 Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 06/11/2026 Closing Date: 07/09/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Indian Affairs Council / Indian A Council-Managerial Division/Unit: Indian Affairs Council / Indian Affairs Leadership Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes - Up to 75% of the time Salary Range: $48.45 - $69.48 / hourly; $101,163 - $145,074 / annually Classified Status: Unclassified Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Manager/Unrep FLSA Status: Exempt - Executive Re-Posting: Yes Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Responsibilities

Established in 1963, the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council (MIAC) is the oldest council in the nation and serves as a liaison of the Indian tribes and the State of Minnesota. The Indian Affairs Council Offices, located in St. Paul and Bemidji, Minnesota, carry out the mission of the Indian Affairs Council, which is "to protect the sovereignty of the eleven Minnesota tribes and ensure the well-being of all American Indian citizens throughout the State of Minnesota." MIAC focuses on policy development and advocacy for a broad base of issues affecting the American Indian Tribes and communities of Minnesota, including, but not limited to, education, health, human services, ICWA, public safety and corrections, transportation, employment and economic development, veterans, disabilities, human rights, housing, and homelessness. The purpose of the Executive Director position is to manage the operations and programs of MIAC. Responsibilities include:

Provide strategic leadership and direction for the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council (MIAC). Develop and advocate for policies and programs aligned with Minnesota Statutes, section 3.922. Serve as spokesperson to the Governor's Office, legislature, and state agencies. Manage agency operations, budget, and staff in Bemidji and St. Paul. Coordinate Council meetings and support effective decision-making. Strengthen state-tribal relations and promote cultural understanding.

This is a Statutory Unclassified position. Employees in this role serve at the discretion of the Executive Board of the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council.

Note: A person who is currently a member of the Council must resign from the Council before submitting their application, or their application will not be considered.

Minimum Qualifications

The successful candidate should have at least five (5) years of professional and progressive leadership experience sufficient to lead a small agency including: Knowledge and understanding of the Tribal Governments and their sovereign governing jurisdictions, state and federal antipoverty policies, programs, laws and regulations. Knowledge of the legislative process. Knowledge and experience with project management and/or strategic planning. Experience advocating for policy changes or working through issues of concern for the American Indian community. Ability to establish and maintain constructive working relationships with Tribal governments, the American Indian community, state agencies, government legislature and the general public. Ability to travel intrastate and interstate as required by duties. Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of Minnesota statutes, policies and rules. Ability to prepare a variety of reports and press releases. Experience with budget development and budget administration. Ability to communicate and present clearly and effectively across diverse groups of community stakeholders, government entities, nonprofit agencies, media and the business community. Demonstrated knowledge of the principles and practices of public policy analysis and development.

Additional Requirements

Successful applicants must pass an employment reference check and a criminal background check through American Databank.

How To Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Jennifer Otley at jennifer.otley@state.mn.us or 651-201-2498.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your Benefits May Include

Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals

Training, classes, and professional development Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) For Work/life Support

A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants With Disabilities

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.