Director of Programs

About the role

This role provides oversight for our Muskegon, MI and Holland, MI branches and requires regular travel between both locations. Rooted in our Christian faith, Bethany Christian Services works to ensure children are safe, loved, and connected through family. Across 29 states, we strengthen families, support foster care and adoption, and walk alongside refugees with compassion.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, supervision, and development for Program Supervisors and staff, including coaching, performance management, and employee relations;
• Partner with the Branch Director to set program strategy, goals, budgets, and operational priorities;
• Oversee daily program operations and administrative functions to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and service quality;
• Ensure all programs meet agency, state, federal, licensing, and contractual requirements, including outcome-based standards;
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with referral sources, community partners, and external stakeholders;
• Represent the organization through public relations activities, community engagement, and speaking opportunities as assigned;
• Oversee facility operations, including maintenance, safety, and coordination of resources across assigned locations;
• Manage on-call systems and staffing structures to meet program demands;
• Stay informed on industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices, and provide recommendations for program and policy enhancements;
• Ensure consistent enforcement and adherence to agency policies and procedures;
• Participate in organizational initiatives, performance review processes, and special events as required;

Requirements

BSW or Bachelor’s level degree in Human Services, or equivalent field of study; MSW or Master’s level degree in Social Services, or equivalent field of study, preferred; At least five (5) years of experience overseeing a program in the field of social services, or working in a child caring institution; Active Child Welfare Certification in the state of the work location, preferred; Demonstrated experience with trauma and working with youth; Prior supervisory experience; Proven knowledge and expertise in social services, behavioral health, and family support systems, including policies, regulations, and community resources for the programs that will serve; Strong leadership, program management, and strategic planning skills; Ability to pass required medical exam and have the physical ability to fulfill essential functions, to include but not limited to physical restraints of a resident, as applicable; Demonstrated clinical, therapeutic and crisis intervention skills; Mature and stable judgment, sensitivity to various cultures and the unique history of clients, as applicable; Bilingual Spanish/English fluency, strongly preferred; Successfully pass a TB test annually and document preference to receive or decline Hepatitis immunization, if required by program; Demonstrated ability to work effectively on a multi-disciplinary team; Excellent verbal and written communication skills; Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite; Must be 21 years old with a valid driver's license with at least 3 years driving experience in the U.S. to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany; Must pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate coverage; Pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries; Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Commitment to Unity.