Assistant County Manager - Human Services, Strategic Plan, Special Projects

Under limited supervision, this position performs complex executive work advising and collaboratively working with the County Manager, Senior Leadership Team, and Department Directors to carry out the goals, objectives, and policies established by the Board of Commissioners. The employee is responsible for coordinating the effective delivery of public services and for providing support to the County Manager for the management, oversight and/or administration of complex projects and programs. The Assistant Manager serves as the Director of the Consolidated Human Services Agency, when appointed to the role upon advice and consent of the Consolidated Human Services Board, and performs complex administrative and managerial work. In this role, the position is responsible for planning, organizing, staffing, and directing the agency’s internal operations. The employee works to achieve unified operations of Public Health and Social Services, including program implementation and supervision, to ensure the County’s vision for human service delivery is realized and a high performing workplace culture is maintained. The position will supervise and manage all agency fiscal operations and functions with direct administrative supervision of the Health Division Director and Social Services Division Director. Additionally, the position is responsible for coordinating the implementation of the Countywide Strategic Plan and tracking progress in attaining the Plan’s Strategic Goals and Objectives through performance management. The employee is responsible for organizing interdisciplinary teams to implement the Plan’s objectives and assisting department leadership to ensure alignment with department level work plans, programs, and resources consistent with the Plan. The position is responsible for leading innovation initiatives, conducting research and data analysis, developing best practices related to performance management, as well as creating and maintaining periodic reporting mechanisms and comprehensive progress reports. The employee advises the County Manager, Consolidated Human Services Board and Board of County Commissioners on issues and trends related to the position’s areas of responsibility. Work involves ensuring compliance with State and Federal regulations and County policies, and responding to public information requests. As Assistant County Manager, the employee serves on the Senior Leadership Team and is actively involved in community engagement, legislative matters, and Board of Commissioners initiatives. Reports to the County Manager. Responsibilities The following are examples of typical work activities and responsibilities. The incumbent may be responsible for performing other related duties and responsibilities as required or assigned. Consolidated Human Services Director Provide leadership and direction for program development: establish program standards, monitor and evaluate quality of service delivery systems, develop and implement a complex and diversified annual work program, supervise budget activities, review and modify organizational policies, systems, and procedures, and serve as the principal spokesperson for the agency relative to program issues. Ensure delivery of mandated programs/services: assure efficient and effective operations, build cultural competency, ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws/policies and rules, manage risk mitigation, maintain the highest level of professional standards, and respond to the current and anticipated needs of the community. Oversee financial activities of the Agency: prepare, justify, manage, and present the annual budget; identify budget requests resulting from work plan implementation. Personnel/Team Management to ensure a competent workforce: hire, develop, counsel, and evaluate performance; maintain direct involvement in conflict/complaint resolution, staffing, and personnel issues; develop and maintain a positive team work environment; and provide effective and timely communication. Represent the agency with government officials, other human services providers, and a variety of advocacy groups to influence the decision-making process in order to ensure adequate resources for program maintenance and expansion. Assess community needs through relevant data and reports and assure the development of programs to meet those needs. Serve as the Executive Officer of the County CHS Board, executing the authority of the board as defined in GS 153A-77; perform or delegate duties executing the powers as defined in NCGS 130A-4, NCGS 130A-45.5, and NCGS 153A-77(e) for the Social Services Director. Develop and recommend appropriate policies and procedures to the Consolidated Human Services Board. Ensure the provision of accurate and timely information to the board. Create organizational vision for strategic planning to develop, implement, and improve delivery of human services to County citizens. Strategic Planning Manager Facilitate and collaborate with interdepartmental working groups to coordinate, integrate, and implement strategic objectives across county departments and agencies while promoting a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Collaborate with key stakeholders to gather input, analyze data, and identify strategic initiatives to address County priorities and current and emerging issues. Create reporting and monitoring reports, summary infographics, dashboards, and other reporting devices to track and report on performance measures and metrics designed to track progress in achieving strategic goals and objectives. Make periodic presentations to the Board of Commissioners and other interested groups concerning implementation progress of the Strategic Plan. Assess and evaluate the effectiveness of strategic objectives and performance measures, promote innovation by identifying opportunities for improvement and adjustment as needed. Conduct research and analysis on policy issues, trends, and best practices relevant to county government operations and provide strategic insights and recommendations to inform decision-making processes and policy development efforts. Foster positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders involved in Strategic Plan implementation which includes department leadership, other local governments, and community organizations. Work closely with finance and budgeting teams to align strategic priorities with available resources and funding mechanisms and develop budget proposals that support the implementation of strategic objectives while ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability. Identify potential risks and vulnerabilities that may impact the achievement of strategic objectives and develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to minimize exposure and safeguard the county's interests against unforeseen challenges or disruptions. General Oversee other County Departments as assigned and directed. Monitor and/or coordinate special projects and perform administrative responsibilities, including developing policies and conducting studies. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with other governmental agencies, civic and community groups, professional associates, supervisors, volunteers, governmental bodies, other community agencies, and the general public. Represent the County’s interests in working with a broad range of stakeholders to resolve often complex and sensitive issues. Maintain community visibility through active participation on boards and committees impactful to Pitt County government and the local community. Use computer applications or other automated systems such as spreadsheets, word processing, calendar, e‑mail and database software in performing work assignments. Additional Job Functions Adhere to the department’s safety rules and regulations. Perform other related work as required. Qualifications Graduation from a four‑year college or university with a degree in public policy, social services, public health, business administration, or a closely related field is required. Master’s degree in a related field is preferred. Candidates must have had a minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible supervisory or administrative experience, including responsibilities for fiscal management, personnel administration, and program development, as well as experience in strategic planning and leading innovative initiatives. Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license. #J-18808-Ljbffr