DHHS Director

Director of Health and Human Services

The Director of Health and Human Services serves as the chief executive officer of the Jackson County Department of Health and Human Services and is responsible for the overall administration, leadership, strategic direction, and performance of departmental programs, personnel, budgets, and operations.

Operating under the authority of the Jackson County Health and Human Services Board, the Jackson County Board of Supervisors, and applicable Wisconsin Statutes, the Director provides executive leadership for all departmental divisions and services, including Public Health, Children and Family Services, Adult Protective Services, Behavioral Health, Economic Support, Child Support, Aging and Disability Resource Center, Aging Programs, and related human service programs.

The Director ensures effective integration, delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement of services while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local requirements. The position serves as the primary liaison between the Department, County leadership, regulatory agencies, community partners, elected officials, and the public.

First review of applications August 17, 2026.

Department Leadership and Administration:

• Provides executive leadership and direction for all Department of Health and Human Services programs, services, and operations
• Establishes organizational priorities, strategic objectives, and performance expectations for departmental divisions and management staff
• Directs and coordinates departmental operations to ensure effective and efficient service delivery
• Evaluates departmental performance and implements operational improvements to enhance service quality and organizational effectiveness
• Ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, contractual obligations, and professional standards
• Determines, subject to Board approval, whether services are provided directly, contracted, or delivered through partnerships
• Oversees departmental administrative functions, facilities, technology, safety, security, and support services

Strategic Planning and Organizational Development:

• Leads department-wide strategic planning initiatives and organizational development efforts
• Establishes long-term goals and objectives to address community needs and improve service delivery
• Develops and implements organizational policies, procedures, and operational standards
• Evaluates emerging trends, legislation, funding opportunities, and community needs to guide departmental planning
• Facilitates management team meetings and leadership development activities
• Promotes innovation, continuous improvement, and evidence-based practices throughout the Department

Board, Committee, and Governance Support:

• Serves as the primary staff liaison to the Health and Human Services Board
• Advises the Board regarding operational, fiscal, legislative, regulatory, and policy matters
• Develops Board agendas, resolutions, reports, annual reports, and supporting materials
• Coordinates and facilitates Board meetings and committee activities
• Provides written and verbal reports, recommendations, and presentations to the Health and Human Services Board, County Board, and other committees
• Implements Board directives and policy decisions

Budget and Fiscal Management:

• Leads development and administration of the Department's annual budget in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes and County policies
• Monitors revenues, expenditures, grants, contracts, and financial trends to ensure fiscal responsibility
• Allocates funding and resources to support departmental priorities and statutory obligations
• Collaborates with County Finance staff regarding financial planning, forecasting, audits, and reporting requirements
• Reviews and approves financial plans, contracts, grant proposals, and funding agreements
• Ensures compliance with financial management standards, grant requirements, and audit expectations

Human Resources and Workforce Development:

• Provides overall leadership, supervision, and evaluation of departmental management staff
• Oversees recruitment, hiring, onboarding, performance management, employee development,…