Regional Director of Operations, Mental Health

Job Address:

Regional Director of Operations, Mental Health Division

About Stepping Stone:

Stepping Stone is a dynamic and growing organization dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centered care inside skilled nursing facilities. We are excited to launch a new initiative to bring exceptional mental health services directly to residents within skilled nursing facilities throughout Ohio. This program will address a critical need and enhance the well-being of vulnerable individuals in our communities.

Position Summary:

Stepping Stone is seeking a visionary and experienced Director of Mental Health Operations to lead the development, implementation, and ongoing management of our innovative mental health program within skilled nursing facilities across Ohio. This is a unique opportunity to build a program from the ground up and make a significant impact on the lives of nursing home residents. The Director will be responsible for establishing and overseeing all aspects of the program, ensuring the delivery of tailored, high-quality mental health services in collaboration with nursing home administrative teams and facility psychiatrists. This role requires strong leadership, operational expertise, clinical understanding, and exceptional relationship-building skills.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $95,000.00 - $118,000.00 per year

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Hybrid remote in North Royalton, OH 44133

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Responsibilities:

Program Development and Implementation:

• Traveling to all facilities for implimentation and maintenance of the programs.
• Lead the development of comprehensive mental health program materials, workflows, and protocols tailored to the unique needs of skilled nursing home residents.
• Collaborate closely with nursing home administrative teams to understand their specific needs and develop customized program offerings.
• Establish clear program goals, objectives, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure program success and impact.
• Develop and implement efficient processes for service delivery, documentation, and communication.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant state and federal regulations, as well as CARF standards.

Clinical Collaboration:

• Work closely and collaboratively with facility psychiatrists to ensure seamless and integrated mental health care for residents.
• Establish effective communication channels and protocols for collaborative treatment planning and case consultation.
• Facilitate regular communication and meetings between the mental health team and the facility psychiatrist.

Team Leadership and Management:

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and train a high-performing team of mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, counselors, social workers) to serve multiple skilled nursing facility locations.
• Provide ongoing supervision, support, and professional development opportunities for the team.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and ethical work environment.
• Manage team schedules and ensure adequate staffing levels across all participating facilities.

Budget and Resource Management:

• Develop and manage the program budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient allocation of resources.
• Monitor program expenditures and identify opportunities for cost-effectiveness.
• Oversee the procurement of necessary program supplies and equipment.

Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with nursing home administrators, staff, and other key stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for program-related inquiries and concerns from nursing home partners.
• Proactively address any challenges or issues to ensure the smooth operation and success of the program within each facility.
• Conduct regular site visits and meetings to maintain strong partnerships and assess program effectiveness.

Quality Improvement and Compliance:

• Establish and implement a robust quality improvement program to monitor the effectiveness and impact of mental health services.
• Collect and analyze data to track progress towards program goals and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure the program operates in compliance with all relevant regulations, licensing requirements, and CARF standards.
• Prepare for and participate in any required audits or reviews.

Reporting and Communication:

• Develop and present regular reports on program activities, outcomes, and KPIs to Stepping Stone leadership.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders regarding program updates and progress.

Qualifications:

• LNHA preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive leadership and management experience in a behavioral health setting.
• Experience working within or in collaboration with skilled nursing facilities or long-term care settings is highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of the mental health needs of older adults and individuals in long-term care.
• Proven ability to develop, implement, and manage new programs and initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience in recruiting, hiring, training, and supervising clinical staff.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Experience managing budgets and financial resources effectively.
• Knowledge of relevant state and federal regulations and CARF standards.
• Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) and other relevant technology.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for travel throughout Ohio.

Personal Attributes:

• Visionary and strategic thinker with a passion for improving mental health care.
• Highly motivated and self-directed with the ability to work independently.
• Strong ethical compass and commitment to person-centered care.
• Adaptable and flexible in a dynamic and evolving environment.
• Excellent collaboration and team-building skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build trust and rapport with diverse individuals.