Peers Program Director

AGENCY AND MISSIONFirst Choice Services is a 501c3 non-profit organization. First Choice Services provides free support through helplines, behavioral health training, and expert guidance. We connect individuals, families, and communities to real help. We are proud to offer the lived experience of our team to support, encourage, and help others find a pathway to wellness.

POSITION OVERVIEW The Director of Peer Programs provides strategic leadership, oversight, and management of the PRSS function. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, recovery-oriented services that promote hope, wellness, self-direction, and community integration. The role is responsible for developing operational strategies, ensuring effective service delivery, managing budgets and resources, leading teams, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that support organizational objectives.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPThe Director of Peer Programs reports to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The position’s direct reports include all FCS Peer Program staff (Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS), Recovery Coaches, and Program Coordinators).ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Strategic Leadership Develop and implement program strategies aligned with organizational goals.

Establish annual objectives, performance measures, and key results.

Advise executive team on operational and strategic matters related to PRSS activities.

Identify opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and growth.

Collaborate with Director of Marketing and Communications on media, marketing and outreach.

Collaborate with FCS Program Directors to enhance interagency efficiencies and client outcomes.

Operations Management Oversee daily operations and service delivery.

Ensure compliance with organizational policies, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.

Monitor performance metrics and implement corrective actions when necessary.

Develop and maintain operational procedures and best practices.

Coordinate and execute the annual Peer Recovery Retreat.

Financial Management Prepare and manage departmental budgets.

Monitor expenditures and optimize resource utilization.

Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service quality.

Prepare financial and operational reports as needed.

Team Leadership Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing staff.

Collaborate with Director of Training and Development to enhance staff performance.

Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance management.

Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Lead change management initiatives.

Meet regularly in-person with remote teams.

Collaborate with Employee Services department to manage team members.

Provide peer supervision hours specific to the domains outlined by the WVCBAPP.Professional Network Leadership Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Represent the department in conferences, executive meetings, community forums, and partner engagements.

Address stakeholder concerns and ensure high levels of satisfaction.

Meet regularly in-person with partner agencies.

Continuous Quality Improvement Establish quality standards and performance benchmarks.

Analyze operational data and trends to improve effectiveness.

Lead process improvement and organizational excellence initiatives.

Attend conferences, community meetings and other learning opportunities.

QUALIFICATIONS Education and Experience WVCBAPP Peer Recovery Support Specialist Certification Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or Addictions preferred

Three years lived experience with substance use disorder

Experience in peer support, crisis intervention, and suicide preventionWVCBAPP Certified as a PRSS Supervisor, or committed to completing the certification process within a year.

Knowledge and Skills Strong understanding of recovery principles, peer support models, and behavioral health systems.

Knowledge of trauma-informed, person-centered, and culturally responsive care.

Strong organizational and project management abilities.

Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Strong professional ethics and judgement.

Strategic thinking…