[Hiring] Associate Director, Suicide Prevention Policy and Services @TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS

Role Description

Director I, functionally known as the Associate Director of Suicide Prevention Policy and Services (SPPS), will report directly to the Deputy Associate Commissioner (Director III) of the Prevention and Behavioral Health Promotion Team (PBHP DAC) in the Substance Use Programs (SUP) Unit of Behavioral Health Services (BHS).

• Performs advanced (senior level) managerial work, providing direction and guidance in strategic operations and program planning with a focus on suicide prevention.
• Establishes goals and objectives for the suicide prevention team that align with PBHP, SUP, and BHS goals and strategies for operations.
• Serves on the PBHP leadership team in an Associate Director capacity, assisting in the strategic development and growth of PBHP.
• Represents PBHP in internal and external meetings, work groups, trainings, and/or events.
• Establishes the strategic plan, goals, and objectives specific to suicide prevention.
• Provides leadership to the Statewide Behavioral Health Coordinating Council’s (SBHCC) Suicide Prevention Subcommittee.
• Develops policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Establishes priorities, standards, and measurement tools for determining progress in meeting suicide prevention goals.
• Coordinates and evaluates program activities or business functions.
• Reviews and approves budgets within departments or divisions to ensure effective resource allocation.
• Supervises staff who design, implement, and oversee suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention programs, training, and technical assistance.
• Uses data to make data-informed decisions about the need for new suicide prevention initiatives targeting specific communities in Texas.
• Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Qualifications

• A minimum of a master’s degree in prevention science, public health, social work, health education, business administration, health services, or other related field from an accredited college or university.
• A minimum of two years of supervisory or managerial experience.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams in a public health or behavioral health field is preferred.
• A minimum of five years of project or grants management experience is required; with at least three of those years managing prevention, behavioral health, or public health programs required.
• At least two years of prior government (local, state, federal, university, etc.) experience is highly preferred.

Requirements

• Knowledge of best practices for suicide prevention in behavioral health services, including evidence-based programs, interventions, and treatments.
• Skills in strategic planning and thinking big picture to establish a clear vision and direction for suicide prevention.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Demonstrate strong organizational skills and prioritize workload.
• Work independently with minimal supervision and make sound decisions.

Benefits

• 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees.
• A defined benefit pension plan.
• Generous time off benefits.
• Numerous opportunities for career advancement.