Senior Director, Acute Mental and Behavioral Health

Seattle Children's Hospital•Seattle, WA

About The Position

The Senior Director provides 24/7 strategic and operational leadership for Seattle Children's Mental Health Programs, overseeing the inpatient psychiatric unit, crisis stabilization, consult liaison services, behavior support, and the Emergency Department. The role ensures clinical excellence, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability in alignment with the organization's mission. The Senior Director leads the development and implementation of strategic initiatives covering operations, patient flow, facilities, capital and operating budgets, new service lines or programs, and staffing. The role directs and manages contracted services to meet patient and organizational needs; develops and manages strategic plans in response to anticipated trends, changes in treatment, economics, and patient needs; and sustains interdisciplinary relationships, committees, and special projects that contribute to program development. Relocation assistance is offered to qualifying external applicants.

Requirements

Master's degree in social work or an equivalent field, such as LMHC or LMFT. A master's degree in Business Administration, Public Health, Healthcare Administration, or a related field may substitute if the candidate also has a bachelor's degree in Nursing.
Candidates currently enrolled in a master's program will be considered; they must complete the program within three years in the position and maintain solid performance.
At least five years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Current Washington state LICSW, LMFT, or LMHC credential required within 90 days of hire.
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers; current PEARS or PALS certification is accepted in lieu of BLS.
Safety Care certification, through internal training, required within three months of hire and annually thereafter.

Nice To Haves

Five years of management experience in a health care setting.
Advanced organizational, oral, and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

Provide 24/7 strategic and operational leadership for Seattle Children's Mental Health Programs.
Oversee the inpatient psychiatric unit, crisis stabilization, consult liaison services, behavior support, and the Emergency Department.
Ensure clinical excellence, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability in alignment with the organization's mission.
Develop and implement strategic initiatives for operations, patient flow, facilities, capital and operating budgets, new service lines or programs, and staffing.
Direct and manage contracted services to meet patient and organizational needs.
Develop and implement a strategic plan that responds to anticipated trends, changes in treatment, economics, and patient needs.
Develop and sustain interdisciplinary relationships and committees.
Manage special projects that contribute to program development.