Department of Social Services- Director

The County of Santa Barbara, California seeks an innovative and service-driven Director of Social Services to lead one of its largest departments and shape the future of critical safety-net services. The ideal candidate should bring executive leadership experience in a comparable human services environment, strong fiscal and operational acumen, and a collaborative, community-focused approach to advancing whole-person care and improving outcomes.

About the role

This executive will provide strategic leadership for more than 700 employees and a $241 million department, strengthening programs, partnerships, and services that improve the lives of children, families, older adults, and vulnerable residents.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the Department of Social Services, overseeing programs, partnerships, and services that improve the lives of diverse populations.
• Strengthen existing programs and develop new initiatives to address emerging needs and challenges in the community.
• Collaborate with community partners to enhance service delivery and expand access to critical resources.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while maintaining high standards of quality and integrity in all operations.
• Develop and implement performance metrics to measure program effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.
• Advocate for policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels to support the mission and goals of the Department of Social Services.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in social work, public administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive management experience in a human services organization, including experience in program development, budgeting, and strategic planning.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with community stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector partners.
• Strong financial management skills, including experience with grant writing, budgeting, and fiscal oversight.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously, with a focus on achieving results within established timelines.
• Experience working with diverse populations and communities, including those facing poverty, homelessness, and other social determinants of health.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in social work, public administration, or a related field.
• Leadership experience in a human services organization with a track record of successful program development and implementation.
• Experience managing large budgets and overseeing complex organizational structures.
• Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in human services and social work.
• Experience with data analysis and reporting to inform decision-making and program improvements.

Skills

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience with technology and data management systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Flexible work schedule to accommodate personal and professional responsibilities.
• Professional development opportunities and career advancement potential.

Pay

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Fully remote position with flexible hours to accommodate personal and professional responsibilities.

To apply, please visit this link.