Program Director

Director Of Programs

The Director of Programs provides leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for assigned organizational programs and services. This position is responsible for ensuring high-quality service delivery, program effectiveness, staff development, achievement of organizational outcomes, and compliance with all applicable regulatory, licensing, accreditation, and contract requirements.

The Director of Programs works collaboratively with organizational leadership to ensure programs operate efficiently, align with the organization's mission and strategic goals, and provide exceptional services to participants. The position promotes a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, teamwork, and participant-centered care.

Program Leadership and Operations

Provide leadership and oversight of assigned programs and services.

Ensure programs operate in compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, licensing, accreditation, and contractual requirements.

Develop, implement, and monitor policies, procedures, and operational practices that support quality service delivery.

Monitor program performance and identify opportunities for operational improvements and enhanced participant outcomes.

Ensure consistent implementation of organizational philosophies, best practices, and service standards.

Ensure programs consistently implement trauma-informed care, participant-centered services, recovery support principles, and evidence-based practices.

Collaborate with leadership to develop and implement strategic initiatives and program enhancements.

Maintain awareness of industry trends, emerging best practices, and regulatory changes affecting programs and services.

Participate in organizational planning, program development, and growth initiatives.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

Analyze program outcome data and performance trends to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.

Develop and implement action plans to improve participant outcomes and operational effectiveness.

Conduct quality assurance reviews and audits to ensure compliance with regulatory, contractual, and organizational standards.

Utilize data and performance metrics to drive decision-making and continuous quality improvement efforts.

Ensure assigned programs meet grant deliverables, contract requirements, and performance outcomes.

Collaborate with Development, Finance, and Quality teams on grant reporting, monitoring visits, and compliance reviews.

Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual program reports.

Staff Leadership and Development

Assist in recruiting, hiring, onboarding, supervising, coaching, and evaluating program staff.

Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-performing team culture.

Provide ongoing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities for staff.

Identify training needs and coordinate educational opportunities to strengthen team performance.

Ensure staff understand and adhere to organizational policies, procedures, and expectations.

Promote employee engagement, accountability, and retention.

Address employee performance concerns in accordance with organizational policies.

Financial and Administrative Management

Develop, monitor, and manage assigned program budgets to ensure effective utilization of resources and achievement of program objectives.

Monitor expenditures and ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources.

Support grant and contract compliance requirements, including performance reporting and outcome measurement.

Collaborate with Finance, Development, Compliance, and Operations teams to ensure organizational effectiveness.

Leadership Responsibilities

Serve as a member of the leadership team and contribute to organizational planning and decision-making.

Promote collaboration and communication across departments and program areas.

Lead change management efforts and support organizational growth, restructuring, and strategic initiatives.

Support organizational initiatives and continuous improvement activities.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Certificates and Licenses:

Must have current license from Texas Department of State and Health Services (LCDC, LMSW, LPC) plus five years' experience working in behavioral health.

If driving on SMH business, must have a valid Texas Driver's License and provide proof of current insurance.

Education/Experience:

Bachelor's or master's degree in social work, counseling, addiction counseling, or related field from four-year college or university; Five years' experience in SUD and/or behavioral health treatment in a leadership or supervisory role. Experience and knowledge of co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders. Proven ability to manage a diverse staff of human service professionals. Experience and understanding of DSHS regulations and ensure compliance with licensure standards. Experience implementing/practicing Evidence Based Practices, Trauma Informed Care, and the ability/experience to effectively teach these to others.

Santa Maria Hostel provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.