CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR

Position Overview

To lead, manage, and ensure the effective delivery of Independent Living services for youth ages 16–21 transitioning from foster care to adulthood, in alignment with Maryland’s Ready By 21 framework and Chafee Foster Care Program goals.

Program Governance & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with Maryland DHS policies, including SILA and Aftercare service standards
• Maintain documentation and reporting protocols required by DHS and other oversight bodies
• Implement and monitor internal controls to ensure ethical, legal, and trauma-informed practices

Policy Development & Strategic Planning

• Develop, revise, and enforce operational policies and procedures for:
• Youth intake and eligibility
• Service planning and goal tracking
• Emergency response and incident reporting
• Staff conduct, supervision, and grievance resolution
• Align program goals with Maryland’s Ready By 21 benchmarks and strategic priorities
• Lead strategic planning initiatives to expand services and improve outcomes

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, and supervise multidisciplinary staff (case managers, life skills coaches, clinicians, etc.)
• Establish clear performance expectations and conduct regular evaluations
• Facilitate ongoing professional development in trauma-informed care, youth engagement, and compliance
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Youth-Centered Program Delivery

• Ensure youth voice is central to program design and decision-making
• Oversee development and implementation of individualized service plans
• Support youth in accessing education, employment, housing, healthcare, and financial literacy resources
• Monitor youth progress and intervene when barriers to self-sufficiency arise
• Facilitate youth participation in advisory boards and leadership development opportunities

Community Engagement & Resource Coordination

• Build and maintain partnerships with:
• Local DSS offices and Independent Living Coordinators
• Schools, employers, housing providers, and health services
• Community-based organizations and mentorship programs
• Coordinate wraparound services and referrals to meet youth needs holistically
• Advocate for youth access to tuition waivers, stipends, and other entitlements

Data Management & Quality Assurance

• Oversee collection and analysis of program data to evaluate effectiveness
• Prepare reports for funders, licensing bodies, and internal stakeholders
• Conduct regular audits of case files, service plans, and youth outcomes
• Use data to inform continuous improvement and strategic decision-making

Fiscal Oversight & Resource Management

• Develop and manage program budgets in alignment with funding requirements
• Audit expenditures and ensure cost-effective use of resources
• Oversee procurement and inventory of equipment, furniture, and supplies
• Seek additional funding opportunities through grants and partnerships

Strategic Alignment with Youth Transition Frameworks

• Ensure all program components reflect the Ready By 21 Benchmarks (Maryland DHS)
• Integrate benchmarks across five domains: Education & Employment, Financial Empowerment, Safe Housing, Well-Being, and Supportive Connections
• Ensure youth have access to essential documents, life skills training, and civic engagement opportunities
• Track youth progress using benchmark-aligned service plans and goal-setting tools

LEAD4LIFE, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER