VP of Cognitive Health and Connection Services

Institute on Aging•San Francisco, CA

46d

About The Position

IOA is on the forefront of revolutionary healthcare models, reshaping the way people can age in place. Our innovative models transform lives, enhance communities, and save healthcare systems millions of dollars. Rather than focusing on archaic outdated design, we strive to consistently question the "status-quo" and create new and more innovative ways to help aging adults and adults with disabilities maintain their quality of life. With over 23 programs, we offer multiple ways to aid seniors maintain their health, well-being, independence and participation in the community, fulfilling our mission. The Vice President of Cognitive Health and Connection services, provides visionary, strategic, and operational leadership for Companioa and the Friendship Line-two flagship initiatives of the Institute on Aging (IOA). This executive-level role is suited for a credible expert with advanced credentials in psychology, public health, aging services, or social innovation. The VP will expand Companioa's visibility and interdisciplinary reach in supporting individuals living with cognitive changes and their caregivers. Simultaneously, the VP will steward the legacy and future of the Friendship Line, IOA's 24/7 accredited crisis and warm line that combats loneliness and social isolation among older adults and people with disabilities-a program founded by Dr. Patrick Arbore and nationally recognized for its compassionate, life-affirming work. This role requires a unique blend of academic credibility, public voice, entrepreneurial thinking, and programmatic excellence to ensure long-term sustainability, innovation, and impact across cognitive and emotional well-being domains.

Requirements

Ph.D., Psy.D., DSW, or equivalent in Clinical Psychology, Neuropsychology, Gerontology, Social Work, or a related field.
Deep expertise in aging, dementia, caregiver dynamics, and social isolation.
Capable of delivering evidence-based training, clinical oversight, and research translation.
Demonstrated ability to build academic partnerships and/or research initiatives.
Public health expert, policy advocate, or senior leader in the aging space.
Proven ability to influence public discourse on aging, cognitive decline, and loneliness.
Recognized speaker, policy contributor, or media figure in the aging and mental health arena.
Experience advancing legislation, philanthropy, or systemic change related to aging services.
Entrepreneurial leader from a nonprofit, healthcare system, or aging/tech startup.
Track record of launching, scaling, and sustaining innovative aging-related programs.
Experience integrating digital health, AI, or non-traditional service models in aging services.
Strong understanding of operational growth, strategic partnerships, and earned revenue.
Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience in aging services, cognitive health, or community-based care.
Excellent communication, strategy, and organizational leadership skills.
A national or state-level reputation in one or more relevant domains is strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

Academic publications or high-visibility media engagements related to aging, caregiving, or social isolation.
Experience navigating union environments and interdisciplinary team structures.
Familiarity with crisis intervention models, senior-focused telehealth, or volunteer-led programs.
Prior experience collaborating with public sector agencies or aging funders (e.g., AARP, state agencies, etc.).

Responsibilities

Shape and articulate the strategic direction for Companioa and the Friendship Line.
Position IOA as a state-wide model for integrated dementia/cognitive support and loneliness intervention.
Develop a long-term roadmap for interdisciplinary, scalable aging services.
Oversee a portfolio of services including the Enrichment Center, Care Coaching, Dyad Program (Guide, Life Assistants, Care Manager), and the Friendship Line.
Supervise senior leaders: Sr. Director of Friendship Line, Sr. Manager of the Enrichment Center, Program Guide, and Companioa Outreach staff.
Collaborate across IOA divisions to create integrated, person-centered client journeys.
Serve as a public-facing thought leader on cognitive health, aging, and social connection.
Represent IOA in media, academic forums, public health initiatives, and policy spaces.
Cultivate partnerships, fellowships, and training pipelines with academic institutions.
Champion a culture of innovation, compassion, and client-centered care.
Mentor leaders in program design, operations, and experiential service delivery.
Support staff growth through cross-training, research involvement, and reflective practice.
Identify and implement innovative models for program delivery and community engagement.
Collaborate with development and philanthropy teams to support fundraising strategy.
Cultivate strategic partnerships that enhance visibility, alignment, and revenue diversification.