Strategic Director, Behavioral Health Policy & Systems

FT / PT Status – Full-Time Salary – $41.54 - $66.92 Hourly Wage Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid Recruiter – Angie Rhodes | View email address on click.appcast.io Application Deadline – 7/1/2026 Key Responsibilities This position is open until filled and may close at any time. The Department of Health and Human Services is looking for a highly motivated candidate to join our team as Staff Director, Utah Behavioral Health Commission to lead the state’s efforts to align behavioral health systems advising the Utah Behavioral Health Commission. You will exercise considerable discretion and independent judgment in overseeing a statewide program that impacts the mental health and substance use disorder outcomes of all Utahns. You will plan, direct, coordinate and staff the efforts of the Utah Behavioral Health Commission. The incumbent will work with subject matter experts and: Direct the activities of the Commission; help establish goals, objectives, and strategic plans; and monitor progress toward the Commission’s statewide master plan. Serve as the primary staff member for the Commission, ensuring all duties under Section 26B-5-703 are met, including the coordination of subcommittees (e.g., Suicide Prevention, Crisis Response, etc). Identify and disseminate statewide substance use and mental health policies. Assess existing resources and identify gaps in services/needs based on local, state and federal program/agency/organization priorities. Supervise professional and administrative staff supporting the Commission. This includes hiring, orienting, training, assigning and reviewing work, monitoring performance, and conducting formal performance evaluations. Maintains an information base which reflects agencies/individuals involved and their roles and available resources, and which identifies additional services and needs. Promotes inter-agency partnerships, both public and private, to facilitate coordination and maximize use of resources. Act as the primary point of contact between the Commission, executive branch agencies, legislators, local authorities, and private-sector health system CEOs. Analyze, draft, and recommend high-level policy changes and legislative initiatives to the Legislative Health and Human Services Interim Committee. Manage the Commission’s budget, ensuring appropriate allocation of state funds and resources provided by the department. Represent the Commission in public forums, legislative hearings, and national conferences as the authoritative voice on Utah’s behavioral health coordination. Provides input to DHHS regarding the utilization of related federal grant funds. Reports recommendations annually to DHHS, the Governor, Legislature, Judicial Council and CCJJ. Preference may be given to applicants with professional experience in Behavior and/or Mental Health. Supplemental Information Effective July 1, 2021, State of Utah Employees must either reside in Utah or be in the process of relocating to within 30 days of their start date. This position may currently be a hybrid of both in-office and remote work days. Please note, a position's eligibility for remote work is established by agency management and is subject to change at their discretion, at any time and for any reason. Risks found in the typical office setting, which is adequately lighted, heated and ventilated, e.g., safe use of office equipment, avoiding trips and falls, observing fire regulations, etc. Typically, the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work; however, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying light items; driving an automobile, etc. Special physical demands are not required to perform the work. Qualifications The proven ability to lead, mentor, and manage a team of policy analysts, coordinators, and administrative professionals. The proven track record in a Director or senior management role within a complex healthcare or governmental system. The ability to influence executive-level stakeholders and translate data into actionable legislative strategy. A deep understanding of Utah Code 26B-5 and the ability to navigate the political and operational complexities of behavioral health. Knowledge of personnel management techniques, including interview/selection, coaching, and disciplinary actions. Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration and program management. Ability to direct, motivate, and evaluate the work of professional staff and volunteer commission members. Extensive experience in fiscal management and budget preparation. A Master’s Degree in Public Health, Public Administration, Social Work, OR relevant, equivalent professional experience is strongly preferred. About The Role Location – 288 North 1460 West Salt Lake City, Utah 84116 United States Background Check Required – You must successfully pass a criminal history check. Drug Test Required – No Schedule Code – AR - Employees who make statewide policy Benefits Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization. Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization. Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals. Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support. The Agency For more information on the Division of Integrated Healthcare, Office of Substance Use and Mental Health, please visit our website. EEO Statement The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Utah