Health & Human Services Director

Door County is proud to be a premier place to live, work, and visit. We serve nearly 30,000 year-round residents and a vibrant seasonal population by providing essential services that support and protect the people, economy, and environment of the beautiful Door Peninsula.

Within the County organization, the Health & Human Services Department administers essential public programs and coordinates services that support resident well-being. The department manages eligibility for state and federal assistance programs and oversees operations related to aging, disability, mental health, and substance use services.

By ensuring efficient program administration, regulatory compliance, and effective resource coordination, the department supports consistent, accessible services that enhance stability and outcomes for individuals and families in Door County.

To continue this important work, we are seeking a candidate who will perform the responsibilities outlined in the job summary and contribute to our efforts in serving the community.

Job Summary

Leads and directs the planning, coordination, and administration of all programs and services within the Department of Health and Human Services. Oversees multiple operational divisions in compliance with applicable statutes, ensuring delivery of essential health and human services to Door County residents. Exercises independent judgment and strategic oversight in alignment with county goals, legal requirements, and available resources.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

1. Directs the development, implementation, and evaluation of department-wide strategic plans, operational goals, and public initiatives across multiple service areas.
2. Oversees preparation, monitoring, and presentation of the department’s annual budget, ensuring fiscal compliance and efficient resource allocation.
3. Interprets and implements federal, state, and local statutes and administrative policies affecting human services delivery, adapting county procedures as needed.
4. Communicates routinely with the County Administrator, County Board, community partners, and state/federal agencies on key departmental matters.
5. Advises and supports the Health and Human Services Board, preparing meeting agendas, reports, and policy recommendations.
6. Supervises and evaluates division managers; reviews subordinate evaluations and oversees personnel practices including hiring, assignments, and discipline.
7. Leads the development of internal culture by fostering a positive, inclusive, and productive work environment aligned with department vision, values and goals.
8. Establishes partnerships with local agencies, providers, and stakeholders to coordinate services and expand program capabilities.
9. Works with the management team to pursue and manages grants and external funding opportunities to supplement county resources.
10. Ensures timely and accurate reporting to regulatory agencies; prepares and presents annual performance and impact reports to the County Board.
11. Represents Door County at regional and state-level meetings to influence policy and remain informed on service trends and legislative changes.
12. Responds to consumer complaints and community concerns; investigates and resolves service delivery issues.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Leadership & Strategic Oversight: Develops and guides the implementation of complex multi-service operations with clear accountability.
• Policy Interpretation: Analyzes and applies statutes and regulations to ensure compliance across diverse service areas.
• Budget & Resource Management: Oversees multimillion-dollar budgets with the ability to adjust for fiscal limitations while maintaining service quality.
• Interpersonal Communication: Engages effectively with government officials, staff, clients, and the public to foster understanding and trust.
• Problem Solving: Resolves service and operational challenges using data-driven analysis, collaborative strategies, and adaptive decision-making.
• Collaboration: Builds interagency partnerships and leads initiatives that enhance public health and social service outcomes.
• Performance Management: Sets expectations and monitors results through employee supervision, coaching, and evaluations.
• Public Representation: Acts as the department spokesperson in public forums, meetings, and media engagements.

Required Education & Experience

• Master’s degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or a closely related human services field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in human services or a closely related field.
• At least four (4) years of progressively responsible management experience including budgeting, strategic planning, and personnel oversight.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Previous experience in a county or municipal human services agency.
• Familiarity with Wisconsin Statutes related to health and human services, including Section 46.23.
• Knowledge of Northeast Wisconsin regional service networks and resources.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment with controlled lighting, temperature, and minimal noise levels.  Duties are generally performed seated at a desk with frequent use of a computer, telephone, and other standard office equipment.  The role requires regular verbal communication, hearing, and visual concentration for extended periods.  Occasional standing, walking, or lifting may be required; tasks may involve moving objects weighing up to 10 pounds (e.g., paper files, supplies).  Position may require occasional travel to off-site meetings or service locations within the County.

Emergency Response Statement

In an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs. 

Equal Opportunity Statement

Door County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Disclaimer

The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

Questions About the Position or Hiring Process?

Contact Door County Human Resources
[email protected]
Monday–Thursday: 7:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

 Application Information

Applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position and career goals.

If you require a reasonable accommodation during any part of the application or selection process due to a disability, please notify Human Resources.

 What to Expect:

Application Timeline

• Position is open until filled—apply today.
• Application materials may be reviewed as they are received.

 Selection Process

Applicants may be evaluated through one or more of the following:

• Review of application materials
• Structured interview(s)
• Skills tests, assessments, work samples, or other job-related evaluation methods, as applicable

 Pre-Employment Requirements

Final candidate(s) may be subject to job-related pre-employment requirements, which may include:

• Reference check(s)
• Background check
• Job-related pre-employment screening
• License, certification, or credential verification

 Compensation

The starting rate of pay will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications, relevant experience, certifications, and demonstrated skills, consistent with the County's compensation plan. We are committed to equitable and competitive compensation practices, including consideration of internal equity.

Thank you for your interest in this position. We look forward to reviewing your application.