HUMAN SERVICES DIRECTOR - DANE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

Dane County, Wisconsin (585,533), Dane County is home to Madison, the State capital of Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Madison as well as a multitude of educational institutions and cultural centers. Dane County has a mix of residential, industrial, retail, and recreational uses and includes not only the urban center of Madison but also exceptional suburban and rural communities. Rapid growth and development, combined with an enviable lifestyle amid beautiful settings and outdoor recreation options, make Dane County an exciting professional and personal choice. 

The Dane County Department of Human Services (DCDHS) provides a comprehensive array of services and programs to more than 30,000 customers. The Department is organized into eight divisions — Administration; Disability and Aging; Children, Youth and Family Services Economic Assistance and Work Services; Prevention and Early Intervention; Housing Access and Affordability; Behavioral Health and Badger Prairie Health Care Center. DCDHS employs 842.05 FTEs who work from eight locations. DCDHSD’s proposed 2025 budget is $313 million which includes the support to all service contract service providers and $6.3 million in capital expenditures.

The director is under the general direction of the County Executive and is responsible for the administration of DCDHS. This Director will appoint and direct staff across all divisions and submit the annual department budget. This position is responsible for the work plan and priorities as well as managing the goals and objectives of the department strategic plan. The Director will be responsible for internal and external communications and be the representative to the media, outside agencies, professional organizations and especially its residents. The Director will direct the preparation and negotiation of grant requests and prepare reports for both administrative and public review. This position staffs the Health and Human Needs Committee and the Human Services Board. The Director will be required to participate with or on Statewide Committees or organizations that relate to the work of the Department.

The successful candidate will:  

• Have a strong knowledge and understanding of large department management including budgeting, planning, personnel management, program evaluation and management and information systems.
• Have a good working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations on the operation of the department’s programs.
• Have knowledge of governmental and private grant procedures.
• Have the ability to plan, organize and direct activities of a large diverse organization including staff.
• Have the ability to develop, implement and direct client centered service programs.
• Have the ability to effectively present ideas and concepts both verbally and in writing to governmental bodies and boards and committees as well as the news media, employees and the public.
• Be an energetic and ethical professional with strong technical, interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• Have a record of problem solving, decisiveness, consensus building and approachability. 
• Have the ability to supervise a staff with diverse expertise and experience to achieve the highest level of customer service.
• Have an inclusive managerial style, as well as clear, concise, and open communication skills.

Candidates should also have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities, as outlined below: 

• A master’s degree in human services, public administration, business administration or related field and a combination of experience equivalent five years of leadership preferably in human services OR a bachelor’s degree in of the above specified fields combined with seven years of management experience, preferably in human services.
• Experience gained in the administration of multiple human services programs for a community-based agency including program planning, administration and personnel supervision is preferred.

The salary is $197,600 and negotiable based on qualifications and experience. The County offers a premium full benefit package including participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System. 

Candidates should apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com by October 28^th, 2024, with resume, cover letter and contact information for five work-related references to the attention of David De Angelis, MGT Senior Consultant. Tel: 262-844-6863. Dane County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.