The Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission (MPPDC) has officially opened the search for its next Executive Director, with applications now being accepted for the leadership position that will guide the organization’s regional work across Virginia’s Middle Peninsula.

Based in Mattaponi, Virginia, the Executive Director serves as the senior-level executive responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, financial management and strategic direction of the Commission. The role reports directly to the MPPDC Board and plays a critical part in advancing regional collaboration among the counties and towns that make up the Middle Peninsula.

The MPPDC manages the Fight the Flood program.

The position offers an opportunity for an experienced leader to help shape the future of one of Virginia’s most unique and environmentally significant regions—where local governments, state agencies and community partners work together to address shared priorities including coastal resilience, housing, transportation and economic development.

A Regional Leadership Role

The Executive Director acts as the primary link between the Commission’s policy direction and its operational work. The role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking and the ability to bring together multiple jurisdictions around common goals.

The position focuses on strengthening regional cooperation, ensuring the Commission remains financially sound, legally compliant and operationally effective while advancing initiatives that benefit the entire Middle Peninsula.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic and Fiscal Management – Overseeing the Commission’s long-term financial health and applying sound business principles such as return on investment, cost-benefit analysis and sustainable funding strategies for regional initiatives.
• Regional Leadership and Advocacy – Serving as the primary spokesperson for regional priorities while building consensus among member jurisdictions on issues such as coastal zone management, economic development, housing and transportation.
• Operational Oversight – Managing day-to-day operations and ensuring programs and initiatives align with the Commission’s strategic goals.
• Grant and Contract Oversight – Reviewing complex intergovernmental agreements and government contracts to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Organizational Leadership – Leading a multidisciplinary team of planners and technical professionals while guiding talent development and modernizing organizational workflows.
• Risk Management and Compliance – Identifying financial and legal risks and coordinating auditing processes with Commission leadership.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Working closely with elected officials, boards, committees, and state and federal partners to strengthen regional collaboration and promote the Commission’s programs and initiatives.

Qualifications

The Commission is seeking candidates with a strong background in public administration, finance or regional planning. Required qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Public Administration or Planning with a finance concentration
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive management experience, preferably in government or nonprofit environments
• Experience working in government-funded organizations
• Demonstrated leadership, analytical ability, and strong communication skills

Preferred qualifications include a Master of Business Administration, Master of Public Administration or advanced planning degree, as well as experience with contract law and public-sector revolving loan programs.

Work Environment and Compensation

The Executive Director position is primarily office-based in Mattaponi, with potential opportunities for hybrid or remote work. Approximately 20% travel may be required for meetings, conferences and regional coordination.

MPPDC offers a highly competitive compensation package, with salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Applications Now Open

Qualified candidates interested in leading regional initiatives and strengthening collaboration across the Middle Peninsula are encouraged to apply here.