Behavioral Health Institute Director, Harborview Medical Center

University of Washington•Seattle, WA

3d•$210,000 - $300,000

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Institute at Harborview Medical Center has an outstanding opportunity for a Behavioral Health Institute Director . POSITION HIGHLIGHTS Opportunity to lead a fast-evolving and highly respected institute that has made a significant impact in Washington State and nationally This is a pivotal role for a senior professional ready to shape the future of behavioral health in Washington and beyond. Lead a dynamic and passionate team and collaborate with a powerful network of stakeholders—from frontline clinicians to policymakers—to drive lasting change in how behavioral health care is delivered and experienced Shape a bold vision for growth, drive strategic partnerships, and position the Institute as a go-to resource and thought leader in behavioral health reform. The Behavioral Health Institute (BHI) is open to candidates interested in a dual faculty appointment. DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION Launched in 2019, the BHI is housed at Harborview Medical Center, a mission-driven hospital that provides world-class care to all people, regardless of income or insurance status. The Institute plays a unique role in incubating new ideas and accelerating the translation of clinical innovation into meaningful systems reform. Its work spans workforce development, policy advancement, and implementation support—always informed by research, grounded in lived experience, and aimed at driving scalable change across the behavioral health continuum. Recent areas of focus include crisis system reform, the development of innovative behavioral health workforce training models such as apprenticeships, and the design of a new care model for individuals experiencing first episode psychosis.

Requirements

Master's degree in healthcare, public health, or public policy, or equivalent; or a doctoral degree relevant to behavioral health care.
Minimum of 10 years progressive leadership experience in behavioral health, including a successful track record of innovation in clinical care/health services, systems change, and program development.
Demonstrated experience with philanthropic fundraising, government contracts, and/or grant funding for innovations in behavioral health care.
Experience working with behavioral health policymakers at the local, state, and/or federal level.
Demonstrated success in organizational growth, navigating complex organizations, and relationship development.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may substitute for stated requirements.

Responsibilities

Set Vision and Strategy Provide bold, strategic leadership for the Behavioral Health Institute. Define and drive a clear vision that aligns with Harborview’s mission and positions the BHI as a leader in behavioral health systems transformation.
Lead Program Innovation Develop, implement, and evaluate high-impact behavioral health initiatives. Translate promising clinical, policy, and workforce ideas into scalable programs that improve care and equity.
Engage Stakeholders and Partners Build trusted relationships with public agencies, health systems, funders, and community partners. Represent the BHI in regional and statewide efforts and elevate its profile nationally.
Grow Funding and Resources Lead efforts to secure and diversify funding through philanthropy, grants, and public funding sources. Develop strong cases for support, cultivate key relationships, and position the BHI for long-term financial sustainability.
Lead and Develop the Team Manage and mentor a talented, mission-driven team. Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing culture.
Champion Equity and Lived Experience Ensure equity is embedded in all programs and priorities. Center the voices of people with lived experience to guide and inform the Institute’s work