Director of Regulatory Operations and Policy

Introduction

Make a Difference with DHSS. Our mission at the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is to improve the quality of life of Delaware citizens by promoting health and well‑being, fostering self‑sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DHSS offers numerous career opportunities and is dedicated to attracting and retaining highly talented individuals who are ready to make a difference in the community today.

For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). today.

The Director of Regulatory Operations and Policy for the Division of Health Care Quality provides executive leadership and oversight for regulatory operations, policy development, and modernization efforts. This position directs complex operational and regulatory functions that support public protection, workforce integrity, and health care quality across licensed health care facilities and provider settings throughout Delaware. The Director leads strategic initiatives related to Background Check Center modernization, oversees regulatory drafting and promulgation activities, and provides administrative oversight of investigative and registry compliance functions.

The Director serves as a senior advisor to Division leadership on operational, regulatory, legislative, and policy matters and works closely with internal and external stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, health administration, law, social work, business administration, policy, criminal justice, or a related field.
• Experience leading complex operational, regulatory, or compliance programs within government, health care, or highly regulated environments.
• Experience with regulatory drafting, policy development, or promulgation processes.
• Experience managing large‑scale implementation or modernization projects, including systems or operational transitions.
• Strong project management, organizational, and process improvement skills.
• Experience coordinating across multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulatory frameworks related to health care, public protection, workforce compliance, or licensing.
• Experience supervising professional staff and managing complex operational priorities.
• Strong written communication, analytical, and executive briefing skills.

• Directs and oversees regulatory operations, policy initiatives, Adult Abuse Registry operations, and operational modernization projects within the Division.
• Leads implementation and modernization efforts for the Background Check Center, including systems coordination, operational redesign, workflow development, and stakeholder engagement.
• Oversees the administration and operational integrity of Adult Abuse Registry processes and related compliance activities.
• Oversees the development, review, revision, and promulgation of regulations, policies, procedures, and guidance documents.
• Coordinates cross‑functional initiatives involving operations, information technology, fiscal staff, vendors, and external partners.
• Provides leadership and administrative oversight to the Investigative Section and related compliance functions.
• Monitors operational performance, identifies process improvement opportunities, and implements strategies to improve efficiency, accountability, and service delivery.
• Researches and analyzes state and federal laws, regulations, and policy developments impacting Division operations.
• Develops reports, briefing materials, legislative analyses, and executive‑level recommendations.
• Represents the Division in meetings with providers, state agencies, legislators, advocacy organizations, law enforcement entities, and other stakeholders.
• Assists with strategic planning, organizational development, and change management initiatives.
• Supervises professional, technical, and administrative staff as assigned.
• Performs other related duties as required.

• Two years of progressively responsible experience in regulatory operations, policy development, program administration, compliance, investigations oversight, project management, or related governmental or health care…