Chief Executive Officer - Acute Psychiatric Hospital

OverviewLead with purpose. Make a measurable difference.We are seeking a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead our Cedar Crest Hospital & Residential Treatment Center in Belton, Texas and deliver exceptional clinical, operational, and financial outcomes. This role is an opportunity to Lead Care with Light by advancing access to high-quality behavioral health services for patients, families, and the communities we serve.The CEO serves as the senior executive responsible for day-to-day hospital operations, long-term strategic growth, and consistent performance across quality, regulatory, talent, and financial dimensions. This leader will bring proven experience operating an acute psychiatric or behavioral health hospital, with the ability to translate local market insight into sustainable success.This is a highly visible leadership role with full responsibility for facility performance, culture, and community impact. Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.ResponsibilitiesEnterprise Leadership & StrategyLead the overall operation and performance of the hospital, aligning strategy with Acadia’s mission and valuesDevelop and execute strategic business plans, capital plans, and operating budgets in partnership with the governing body and medical staffLeverage local market expertise to drive sustainable growth, access, and service line expansionIdentify opportunities to enhance performance through innovation, analytics, and operational efficiencyFinancial & Operational PerformanceDeliver consistent achievement of census growth and EBITDA targetsOversee fiscal management, payer contracting, and revenue optimization strategiesEnsure disciplined execution across all operational priorities, balancing short-term results with long-term sustainabilityQuality, Safety & Regulatory ExcellenceMaintain continuous survey readiness and ensure full compliance with all licensure, accreditation, and regulatory standardsChampion a culture of safety and accountability, ensuring prompt resolution of patient safety concernsLead performance improvement and QAPI initiatives to drive best-in-class patient outcomes and satisfactionTalent & CultureRecruit, develop, and retain a high-performing leadership team and clinical workforceBuild a culture rooted in accountability, engagement, and continuous developmentFoster an environment aligned to an employee value proposition that supports caregivers and strengthens retentionMedical Staff & Clinical CollaborationPartner closely with the Medical Director and medical staff to ensure excellence in clinical care deliveryExpand service offerings through physician and allied health recruitmentCommunity Engagement & Business DevelopmentServe as the face of the hospital within the communityBuild strong relationships with referral sources, government agencies, and healthcare partnersPosition the hospital as the provider of choice through meaningful engagement and market insightLeadership & GovernanceProvide clear direction and accountability across the facilityLead governing board engagement and reportingDrive a high-performance culture grounded in integrity, collaboration, and resultsQualificationsRequired ExperienceDemonstrated experience operating an acute psychiatric or behavioral health hospital is required; prior CEO experience strongly preferredMinimum 3 to 5 years in a senior leadership role within behavioral health, acute care, or a related healthcare environmentProven success in driving financial, quality, regulatory, and operational performanceEducationBachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Health, Marketing, or a related fieldMBA or MHA strongly preferredCapabilitiesDeep understanding of hospital operations, behavioral health delivery models, and regulatory requirementsStrong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, growth strategies, and payer relationshipsSkilled at building and leading high-performing teams and fostering accountabilityExceptional communication, relationship-building, and influencing skillsAbility to navigate complexity, adapt to change, and lead with a solution-oriented mindsetHigh integrity with the ability to manage sensitive information professionallyWhy This Role MattersThis is more than a leadership position. It is an opportunity to:Shape the future of behavioral health care in your communityExpand access to life-changing treatmentDevelop exceptional teams and leadersDeliver meaningful outcomes for patients and familiesIf you are a proven healthcare executive with acute psychiatric hospital leadership experience and a passion for advancing care, we invite you to apply. Join us and Lead Care with Light.We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We believe a diverse workforce strengthens our ability to deliver compassionate care and better serve our patients, their families, and the communities we serve.AHCORP#LI-JR1#LI-CCH#LI-onsiteJob SummaryJob ID: 2026-105529Category: CEODepartment Number: 901 CEOLocation : Name: Cedar Crest Hospital & RTC