Deputy Managing Director, Health and Human Services

Position Summary The Deputy Managing Director (DMD) for Health and Human Services is a senior executive role within the Managing Director’s Office (MDO) of the City of Philadelphia.  The DMD provides leadership across multiple city departments focused on health, behavioral health, human services, and related social programs. This role reports through a First Deputy Managing Director to the Managing Director which is a cabinet-level position reporting to and appointed by the Mayor.  The Deputy Managing Director for Health and Human Services oversees strategic leadership, policy implementation, and operational coordination across Philadelphia’s health and human services departments. Essential Functions Assigned to oversee and monitor divisions of operating departments or units (list is intended to be illustrative, not exclusive, and are subject to change based on Managing Director strategic vision) Health and Human Services Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services Mayor’s Commission on Aging Office of Community Wellness & Recovery Office of Homeless Services Philadelphia Department of Public Health Provide leadership and strategic oversight to assigned operating departments, ensuring alignment with the Mayor’s and Managing Director’s policies and objectives. Develop, propose and implement policies and initiatives that improve public service delivery, operational efficiency, and government effectiveness. Under leadership and direction of the Managing Director, ensure successful execution of major city initiatives, programs, and reforms in collaboration with department heads and city officials. Through leadership and oversight of divisions and close collaboration with other Deputy Managing Directors, encourage and lead collaboration among operating departments as well as functions not reporting to the Managing Director’s Office. Serve as a subject matter expert and advisor to the Managing Director on administrative and operational matters concerning assigned division. When necessary, work with assigned division areas to engage with community organizations, private sector partners, and other stakeholders to improve service delivery and policy outcomes. Ensure transparency, accountability, and equitable service delivery across the operating departments and operating function within the division purview. Represent the Managing Director’s Office and, when necessary, the Mayor’s Office at public events, press conferences, and official engagements as required. Under leadership of the Managing Director, manage cross-departmental initiatives to address wide-ranging complex policy and operational challenges. Monitor, guide, and advise on the budgetary and financial management for the operating departments and functions under the division purview, ensuring fiscal responsibility and resource optimization. Monitor and evaluate department performance, using data-driven approaches to track progress and ensure accountability in meeting strategic goals. Prepare arguments and justifications for policy and legislative advocacy priorities at the local, state, and federal levels. Find opportunities for and implement process improvements and technology solutions to modernize service delivery, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance public engagement. Facilitate intergovernmental relations, collaborating with regional, state, and federal partners on initiatives impacting Philadelphia. Ensure compliance with regulatory and legal requirements, providing oversight of city agencies' adherence to applicable laws, policies, and ethical standards. Strengthen community engagement efforts, ensuring resident feedback informs decision-making and city services are responsive to public needs. Required Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of: The structure, functions, and operations of municipal government, including budget management, policy development, and service delivery. Public administration principles and best practices related to governance, strategic planning, performance management, and organizational leadership. Budgeting, finance, and resource allocation, with the ability to oversee a multi-billion-dollar city budget and ensure fiscal responsibility. Urban policy and public sector innovation, including approaches to economic development, infrastructure management, housing, public safety, and transportation. Intergovernmental relations, including collaboration with state, federal, and regional agencies to advance the City’s priorities. Performance management methodologies, using data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and improve service delivery. Technology and digital innovation, leveraging modern tools and systems to enhance efficiency, transparency, and public engagement. Skill in: Extensive experience in public administration, health policy, or social services management. Executive leadership and strategic decision-making, with the ability to guide large-scale initiatives and drive operational improvements. Interagency coordination and cross-sector collaboration, fostering partnerships among government agencies, businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations. Financial and budget management, ensuring responsible fiscal planning and resource allocation for citywide operations. Organizational change management, leading complex reforms to modernize and streamline government functions. Crisis leadership and problem-solving, making high-stakes decisions during emergencies and unexpected challenges. Negotiation and conflict resolution, working effectively with elected officials, labor unions, community representatives, and key stakeholders. Public engagement and communication, articulating complex policies and priorities to diverse audiences, including residents, media, and policymakers. Program evaluation and continuous improvement, using data-driven decision-making to enhance government efficiency and service delivery. Ability to: Lead and oversee a diverse portfolio of operating departments and/or functions, ensuring effective governance and policy implementation. Develop and implement strategic policies and initiatives that align with the Mayor’s and Managing Director’s vision and improve citywide operations. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and efficiency within city government. Analyze complex problems and develop practical, results-oriented solutions that address systemic challenges. Adapt to evolving city needs and emerging issues, responding with agility and proactive leadership. Engage and collaborate with Philadelphia’s residents and businesses, ensuring government actions reflect community needs and priorities. Represent the Managing Director with integrity and professionalism at public events, legislative hearings, and media engagements. Manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure, balancing long-term planning with immediate operational demands.