May 18, 2026

IPERS Chief Executive Officer

Job Description

IPERS Chief Executive Officer

Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa/jobs/newprint/5342092)

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IPERS Chief Executive Officer

Salary

$202,425.60 - $287,892.80 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50313 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-03083

Agency

553 Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS)

Opening Date

05/14/2026

Closing Date

6/12/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-DNP

Point of Contact

Melinda McElroy (melinda.mcelroy@ipers.org)

To Apply

Submit the following via email to Melinda McElroy (melinda.mcelroy@ipers.org) Resume; Three business references; Cover letter that summarizes how your experience is a good match for the position of IPERS' CEO and that identifies what you see as several key issues facing IPERS.

  • Description

  • Benefits

Job Description

This is a non-merit position. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Chief Executive Officer

Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System

The State of Iowa is seeking a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS). This leader will be responsible for fulfilling IPERS' mission as the fiduciary responsible for administering the IPERS Trust Fund. IPERS exists for the exclusive benefit of its members and fulfills its obligations to cost-effectively pay benefits, maintain stable contribution rates, protect member information and provide outstanding service.

IPERS administers a defined-benefit retirement system for public employees of the State of Iowa and its political subdivisions. It is a cost-sharing, multiple-employer system that provides retirement, disability and survivor benefits to more than 423,000 members and manages $46.7 billion in trust fund assets.

As an independent agency within the executive branch of state government, IPERS is led by a CEO appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the Iowa Senate, for a four-year term. The CEO works under the general direction of the Governor and is accountable to the Legislature, the IPERS Investment Board-statutorily designated as the trustee of the system and trust fund-and the Benefits Advisory Committee, which advises the Legislature on benefit administration and the adequacy of the plan. The CEO's salary is set by the IPERS Investment Board.

The CEO is responsible for the strategic direction, planning and overall leadership of IPERS. The ideal candidate will be an excellent communicator with a proven ability to unite stakeholders around a shared mission of delivering outstanding, cost-effective service to members. This individual will possess strong decision-making skills, the ability to implement operational policies and strategic plans, and a talent for motivating and supporting employees. The successful candidate will lead organizational improvements and manage an administrative budget of $24 million, overseeing a staff of 104 employees.

While serving in office, the CEO is prohibited from holding any other public office; being a member of a partisan elective office; or contributing to a political campaign fund. However, the CEO may designate on the checkoff portion of the federal income tax return the party or parties to receive a contribution made through the checkoff.

Salary and Benefits:

Annual salary of $202,425 to $287,892, depending on experience.

As an employee of IPERS, you are eligible for the State of Iowa comprehensive benefits package that includes the following and more:

Insurance- Health, Dental, Life and Long-Term Disability

Paid time off- Nine paid holidays, plus vacation and sick leave which accrue on your first day of employment

IPERS- A lifetime monthly benefit for vested employees. The State contributes a percentage on your behalf

Retirement Investors' Club (RIC)- A voluntary retirement savings program including a State match of up to $75/month

To find out more:https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance

Application will be accepted until Friday, June 12, 2026. The expected start date will follow shortly after the job posting period ends.

E-Verify and Right to Work:

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visitwww.e-verify.gov.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with an emphasis in business or public administration is required; a J.D., M.B.A., M.P.A. or other post-graduate degree related to pension plan administration is preferred. Five years of full-time progressively more responsible management work with a pension system, which includes demonstrated knowledge of all aspects of pension fund administration, including financial management, investment asset management, benefit design and delivery, legal administration, and operations administration.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\and\pay/JobClassDescriptions/IPERSChiefExecutiveOfficer-00838.pdf)

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

553 Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS)

Address

7401 Register Dr

Des Moines, Iowa, 50321

Website

https://www.ipers.org/

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