Senior Advisor for Human Services

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Boston, MA

11d

About The Position

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and experienced professional to serve as Senior Advisor for Human Services. The position is a trusted thought partner to the Undersecretary for Human Services, providing executive-level policy, operational, strategic, and project management support across the Human Services Secretariat. Working closely with the Undersecretary, the Senior Advisor leads and coordinates cross-agency initiatives, advances executive priorities, develops recommendations for leadership, and strengthens collaboration across EOHHS human services agencies and external partners. The role also advances commissions, councils, and task forces chaired by the Secretary or Undersecretary by engaging agency leadership and stakeholders, translating policy and stakeholder feedback into strategic options, and helping move recommendations into action. The position calls for extensive knowledge of health and human services, strong strategic and analytical capabilities, and demonstrated success leading complex initiatives involving multiple agencies and stakeholders. It requires sound judgment, discretion, adaptability, and the ability to navigate a fast-paced, politically sensitive environment while maintaining alignment with broader Administration priorities. The role exercises independent judgment regarding strategic direction, project management approaches, stakeholder engagement, program evaluation priorities, and implementation strategies. EOHHS is the Commonwealth's largest executive agency and works to improve the health, well-being, and quality of life of individuals and families across Massachusetts. It oversees health and human services programs focused on healthcare quality, safe homes and communities, self-sufficiency, and access to community-based services and supports. Applicants must have at least seven years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration, or clinical management, including at least four years in a managerial capacity. Salary placement depends on factors including directly related experience, education, and the Commonwealth's internal compensation structure. A criminal and tax history background check will be completed for the recommended candidate, and education, licensure, and certifications will be verified.

Requirements

At least seven years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration, or clinical management.
At least four years of experience in a managerial capacity.
Extensive knowledge of health and human services.
Strong strategic and analytical capabilities.
Demonstrated success leading complex initiatives involving multiple agencies and stakeholders.
Sound judgment, discretion, and adaptability, including the ability to navigate a fast-paced and politically sensitive environment.
Strong knowledge of health and human services programs, policies, and service delivery systems, including coordination across multiple agencies and populations.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, particularly in preparing materials for senior government officials or executive leadership.
Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in an evolving environment.
Commitment to equitable, accessible, and person-centered human services, including incorporating community perspectives and lived expertise into policy development and program improvement.

Nice To Haves

Background in public policy development, strategic planning, executive-level advisory work, government, public administration, health and human services, or a related field.
Demonstrated success developing and advancing strategic initiatives aligned with executive or Administration priorities.
Proven effectiveness leading complex, cross-functional initiatives involving multiple agencies, departments, or external organizations.
Expertise in policy research, operational analysis, and program evaluation, with the ability to translate findings into actionable recommendations.
Familiarity with legislative, regulatory, and governmental processes and their impact on programs, operations, and service delivery.
Demonstrated ability to identify opportunities for operational improvement, organizational effectiveness, and stronger coordination across agencies or programs.

Responsibilities

Serve as a strategic advisor to the Undersecretary for Human Services on policy, operational, organizational, and cross-agency priorities.
Lead strategic initiatives across EOHHS human services agencies and translate Administration priorities into actionable plans and activities.
Conduct policy and operational analyses and develop recommendations to inform executive-level decision-making.
Direct cross-agency initiatives involving EOHHS agencies, other Executive Departments, and external partners.
Develop project plans, establish priorities and timelines, monitor progress, identify emerging risks, and recommend solutions to advance organizational goals.
Research emerging policy issues and evaluate their potential impact on human services programs, operations, and service delivery.
Assess operational challenges and identify opportunities to strengthen coordination, organizational effectiveness, and system performance.
Advance commissions, councils, and task forces chaired by the Secretary or Undersecretary through engagement with agency leadership, external partners, and other stakeholders.
Translate complex policy issues, operational information, and stakeholder perspectives into clear strategic options and recommendations for leadership.
Prepare executive briefings, reports, presentations, policy memoranda, correspondence, and other materials to support leadership decision-making.
Cultivate productive relationships across EOHHS agencies and with government officials, community organizations, advocates, providers, and other external partners.
Review policy and regulatory matters and assess legislative, federal, and state developments affecting EOHHS human services priorities.
Assist with preparation for public engagements, executive meetings, stakeholder discussions, and other activities involving the Undersecretary.
Exercise independent judgment regarding strategic direction, project management approaches, stakeholder engagement, program evaluation priorities, and implementation strategies.