DIRECTOR OF AGING NUTRITION SERVICES - 76333

Executive Service

This position is designated as hybrid (In-Office & Work from Home).

Background Check:

This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you may be required to provide information about your criminal history in order to be considered for this position.

Job Overview:

The Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging Services is seeking an experienced, mission focused Director of Nutrition Aging Services to lead statewide nutrition programs that support the health, independence, and well being of older adults. This role oversees nutrition services authorized under the Older Americans Act (OAA), including congregate meals, home delivered meals, nutrition education, and other community based nutrition supports. The Director is responsible for ensuring full compliance with all state and federal policies while also driving program innovation. This leader will partner with state and local agencies, community providers, and national organizations to design and enhance nutrition programs rooted in best practices, national research, and the diverse needs of older Tennesseans.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Ensure statewide compliance with federal and state regulations governing Older Americans Act nutrition programs.
2. Develop and maintain policies, guidance, and standards to support consistent, high quality service delivery across all regions.
3. Provide technical assistance, training, and subject matter expertise to Area Agencies on Aging & Disability (AAADs) and community providers.
4. Lead statewide efforts to modernize nutrition programs, incorporating national best practices, innovative delivery models, and evidence based nutrition strategies.
5. Collaborate with partners to improve access to nutritious, culturally responsive meal options, including congregate, home delivered, and hybrid models.
6. Monitor program performance through data analysis, reporting oversight, and continuous quality improvement activities.
7. Coordinate with federal agencies, peer states, and national associations to stay informed about emerging trends, research, and policy developments.
8. Manage federal and state funding streams and ensure alignment with Older Americans Act requirements and state priorities.
9. Represent the Department in statewide workgroups, advisory committees, and national forums related to aging and nutrition.
10. Engage older adults, caregivers, and community stakeholders to inform program improvements and innovation.

Minimum Qualifications:

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience in aging services, public health, nutrition, social services, or a related field.
2. Strong knowledge of the Older Americans Act (or ability to quickly build expertise).
3. Demonstrated experience in program management, policy development, and regulatory compliance.
4. Skilled in partnership development and collaboration with government agencies, providers, and community organizations.
5. Strong analytical skills with experience interpreting data to inform program improvement.
6. Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in public health, nutrition, social work, public administration, or a related field preferred.

Required Experience: 2-3 years experience in state or federal government, nutrition services or program management.

Pursuant to the State of Tennessee's Workplace Discrimination and Harassment policy, the State is firmly committed to the principle of fair and equal employment opportunities for its citizens and strives to protect the rights and opportunities of all people to seek, obtain, and hold employment without being subjected to illegal discrimination and harassment in the workplace. It is the State's policy to provide an environment free of discrimination and harassment of an individual because of that person's race, color, national origin, age (40 and over), sex, pregnancy, religion, creed, disability, veteran's status or any other category protected by state and/or federal civil rights laws.