Chief Program Officer (Non-Profit & IDD Leadership)

Job Description

Job Description

We are a well-established, mission-driven nonprofit organization serving the Midwest with a focus on providing high-quality residential and day programming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded over 70 years ago, we have built a strong reputation for excellence and integrity within our industry. With a team of dedicated professionals, we serve thousands of individuals and families across multiple counties, operating as a Medicaid-certified provider.

About the Role

We are seeking a Chief Program Officer (CPO) to join our Executive Team and lead all programming operations within our organization. This is an exciting opportunity to make a direct impact on our agency's future and the lives of the individuals we serve.

Reporting directly to the CEO, you will oversee and drive strategic initiatives across all programming divisions, including residential services, supported living, day programs, family services, community employment, and health services. You will lead a team of experienced Directors and program leaders and serve as a thought partner to the CEO, and executive team in shaping organizational strategy and ensuring mission fulfillment.

What You'll Do

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for all program services, ensuring quality, sustainability, and alignment with organizational mission
• Lead, develop, and support a team of Directors and program coordinators, fostering a culture of servant leadership and excellence
• Participate actively in executive-level decision making and strategic planning
• Maintain strong connections to direct service delivery, regularly visiting sites and engaging with clients and staff to understand operations firsthand
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements including Medicaid, CARF, and state licensing standards
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen service delivery and organizational effectiveness
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with external partners, advocacy groups, and industry stakeholders
• Manage programming budget and resource allocation in partnership with the CFO

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field
• Minimum 3 years of director-level experience leading programs and people within social services (IDD, mental health, long-term care, or similar)
• Familiarity with Medicaid, CARF, or similar regulatory frameworks
• Demonstrated experience directly supervising staff who deliver frontline services
• Servant leadership philosophy with strong integrity and professionalism
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Strategic and systems-level thinking ability
• Commitment to mission-driven work and duty-based values

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Social Work or related field
• 5+ years of director-level or executive experience
• Specific experience in the IDD field
• Background working within the Indiana service system

Benefits

• Salary Range: $120,000 - $130,000
• Paid Time Off
• Benefits Package: 401(k), comprehensive healthcare, paid parental leave, wellness stipends, and retirement planning
• Work Schedule: 100% onsite with daily local travel throughout service areas; occasional state and out-of-state travel for professional development and industry representation

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