Executive Director

Position Description

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, acting with the authority of the Board. This position is responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and administrative direction to ensure the mission, vision, and statutory responsibilities of the Board are achieved. The Executive Director also oversees the Licensing and Regulatory Programs for both the Cosmetology and Barbering Board and the Advisory Board on Massage Therapy.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and direction for all agency operations and keep the Board informed on key developments, performance, and challenges.
• Guide internal leadership in strategic planning, ensuring agency programs and initiatives are effective, compliant, and future-focused.
• Manage all aspects of agency personnel including hiring, disciplinary actions, performance evaluations, morale, and workflow efficiency.
• Establish and implement short- and long-term goals, develop and oversee departmental budgets, and monitor fiscal activities for sound financial management.
• Ensure effective administration of the examination and inspection programs, with a focus on protecting public health and safety.
• Review complaints, violations, and citations; provide direct guidance to inspectors and examiners as appropriate.
• Oversee foreign reciprocity applications and collaborate with the Board on cases involving felony disclosures.
• Develop, review, and implement agency policies and procedures in alignment with state and federal guidelines (e.g., Ethics Commission, State Auditor, OMES, Governor’s Office).
• Analyze legislation, reports, and regulatory materials to maintain agency compliance and relevance.
• Maintain working knowledge of agency technology systems; provide direction and support for digital monitoring and inspection tools, including video footage review and electronic records management.
• Create a collaborative and inclusive organizational culture that promotes innovation, professionalism, and service excellence.
• Conduct evaluations of licensed facilities for compliance with regulatory standards, safety protocols, and operational procedures.
• Monitor industry trends and participate in meetings, events, and partnerships that promote professional standards and education within the field.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to serve as an official spokesperson with professionalism and poise.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills; able to interpret complex documents and regulatory information.
• Discretion and sound judgment in handling confidential or sensitive matters.
• Skilled in relationship building, public speaking, and delivering presentations to diverse stakeholders including legislators and industry leaders.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, delegate effectively, and lead teams with confidence.
• Technological proficiency and the ability to oversee and support digital initiatives.
  
  

Education And Experience

• Minimum Requirements: Must hold a current Master Cosmetology Instructor License issued by the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering or a license eligible for reciprocity. A combination of Master Cosmetology Instructor and Master Barber Instructor Licenses is preferred.
• A professional degree in Business Administration or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in one or more of the following: vocational/public/higher education administration, technical management, or industry/business leadership.
• Demonstrated experience with legislative processes, regulatory compliance, and public policy is highly desired.
• Strong leadership background in supervision, budgeting, and strategic planning.
• Hands-on experience in the cosmetology or barbering profession, including client services.
• Proven ability to collaborate with educators, business leaders, and regulatory bodies.
• Experience in the cosmetology education system and knowledge of Oklahoma’s CareerTech system preferred.
  
  

Additional Requirements

• Position is based at the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering in Oklahoma City.
• Occasional in-state travel is required.
• National travel may be required to attend professional conferences or regulatory meetings.
  
  

State Benefits

• Generous state paid benefit allowance to help cover insurance premiums.
• A wide choice of insurance plans with no pre-existing condition exclusions or limitations.
• Flexible spending accounts for health care expenses and/or dependent care.
• Retirement Savings Plan with a generous match.
• 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave the first year for full time employees.
• 11 paid holidays a year.
• Student Loan repayment options & tuition reimbursement.
• Employee discounts with a variety of companies and venders.
• Longevity Bonus for years of service.