Building Location:Building D - Miller Dwan Medical Center - EH Duluth

Department:46630 Behavioral Health Admin

Job Description:The Operations Director for Behavioral Health partners closely with senior leadership to implement and execute strategies for behavioral health services, including both inpatient and outpatient programs. This role provides leadership to operational managers and clinical leads, ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality care while achieving financial and operational goals. The Director is responsible for improving service lines, developing innovative programs, and driving engagement among staff and physicians. Skilled in financial analysis, critical thinking, and operational assessments, the Director stays well-informed of industry trends to bring best practices to behavioral health operations.

Education Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, healthcare administration, or a clinical/healthcare-related field
 

Job Description 

Strategic Planning:
Provides input and drafts SBARs for capital planning, new provider FTEs, pro formas, and care delivery model changes specific to behavioral health services. Accountable for implementing innovations and service line growth in partnership with leadership.

Performance Management:
Ensures key performance indicators (KPIs) for behavioral health services are achieved and actively engages others in creating action plans to improve quality, safety, and patient satisfaction. Leads PDSA cycles and other improvement initiatives.

Team Leadership:
Provides coaching, feedback, and mentorship to operational managers and program leads. Develops talent and fosters a collaborative environment.

Operational Oversight:
Oversees day-to-day operations of behavioral health programs, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery. Collaborates with shared services (HR, Finance, Physician Services) to support recruitment, retention, and staff development.

Financial Management:
Leads budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning for behavioral health services. Monitors financial performance and ensures alignment with organizational goals. Develops and implements strategies to optimize resources and achieve financial sustainability.

Community Partnerships:
Identifies and develops partnerships with community organizations to expand access to behavioral health services. Works with external stakeholders to enhance service offerings and improve community health outcomes.

Regulatory Compliance:
Ensures all behavioral health programs meet regulatory requirements and industry standards. Collaborates with quality and compliance teams to maintain accreditation and adherence to best practices.

Special Projects:
Accepts special projects as assigned by the market or division leadership and participates in system-wide or market-wide committees.

Required Qualifications

8 years of healthcare experience, preferably in a clinical setting, including 3 years of leadership experience.

Comprehensive understanding of revenue cycle workflows to ensure revenue accuracy of assigned areas.

Proven experience in dyad leadership collaboration, particularly in behavioral health or related services.

Strong operational management skills with a track record of improving service delivery and achieving performance goals.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or a related field.

Experience in behavioral health operations, including program development and community partnerships.

Licensure/Certification Qualifications:

FTE:1

Possible Remote/Hybrid Option:

Shift Rotation:Day Rotation (United States of America)

Shift Start Time:

Shift End Time:

Weekends:

Holidays:No

Call Obligation:No

Union:

Union Posting Deadline:

Compensation Range:

$111,072.00 - $166,608.00

Employee Benefits at Essentia Health*:

Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, plus supplemental health benefit options to ensure employees' well-being.

Retirement Savings Plans: 401(k) with employer contributions to support long-term financial security.

Professional Development: Opportunities for career growth through training, tuition reimbursement, and educational programs.

Work-Life Balance: Flexible scheduling, time off, holidays, and personal leave to help employees manage their professional and personal lives.

Employee Wellness Programs: Initiatives focused on physical, mental, and emotional health, including fitness memberships, counseling services, and wellness activities.

*Eligibility for Essentia Health’s benefit programs vary. Please refer to the benefit summary provided to you, or contact our HR Service Center at (218) 576-0000 for more information.