Chief Administrator for Community Programs

Oak Hill; Hartford (CT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Free long-term disability insurance

Generous time off

Job summary

Oak Hill is seeking a Chief Administrator for Community Programs in Hartford, CT. In this leadership role, you will oversee operational excellence across a comprehensive service system, ensuring high-quality, person-centered services are delivered at more than 59 sites.

The ideal candidate will have at least ten years of experience in leadership, a master's degree, and proven skills in budget management and regulatory compliance. Benefits include competitive insurance plans and generous time off.

Qualifications

• Ten years of leadership experience with a focus on community programs.
• Experience with Medicaid-funded services and complex budgets.
• Ability to lead in high-pressure environments and manage competing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership for residential and community-based programs.
• Develop leaders and strengthen organizational capacity.
• Build relationships with community partnerships and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Budget Management

Regulatory Compliance

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving

Cultural Competency

Education

Master's degree in human services or business administration

Job description

Chief Administrator for Community Programs

Hartford, CT, USA

Oak Hill has been enhancing the lives of people with disabilities since 1893. With over 129 years of experience, Oak Hill partners with people with disabilities to provide services and solutions that promote independence, education, health, and dignity.

About Oak Hill

Founded in 1893 as the Connecticut Institute for the Blind, Oak Hill has evolved into a dynamic, forward‑thinking organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to live, learn, and thrive. Today it stands as a leader in providing innovative services and solutions that support independence, dignity, and full community inclusion.

Oak Hill’s services span a comprehensive continuum of care, meeting individuals where they are and supporting them at every stage of life—from early education through adulthood.

Oak Hill provides a comprehensive, person‑centered continuum of services, including:

• Assistive Technology
• Integrated Center
• Outpatient Clinic services
• Residential continuum of care
• Statewide educational services

About Community Programs

Oak Hill’s Community Programs are designed to support individuals in living full and meaningful lives through residential services, recreational opportunities, and community engagement. The model prioritizes choice, dignity, and inclusion, offering a range of living options supported by experienced, compassionate staff.

The Opportunity – Chief Administrator for Community Programs (CACP)

The CACP will report to the President & CEO and serve as a key member of the senior leadership team. The role provides executive leadership and operational oversight for one of Connecticut's largest community‑based service systems, spanning more than 59 sites, seven towns, and a $74 million operating budget.

The CACP will oversee a seasoned leadership team, including the Senior Director of Community Programs, Director of Nursing, Director of Behavioral Services, and other key leaders, and over 1,000 support staff.

How You'll Make Your Impact

Lead Community Programs and Drive Operational Excellence

• Provide executive leadership for Oak Hill’s residential and community‑based programs across a broad network of sites and services.
• Ensure the delivery of high‑quality, person‑centered services while advancing operational effectiveness, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability.
• Balance long‑term strategic planning with hands‑on operational oversight, including program performance, staffing, site operations, emergency response, and service quality.
• Leverage data, community input, and emerging trends to strengthen programs, improve outcomes, and identify opportunities for innovation and growth.
• Provide appropriate leadership coverage and on‑call availability as needed.

Develop Leaders and Strengthen Organizational Capacity

• Lead, mentor, and support a team responsible for delivering services across a large, decentralized system.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, professional growth, and shared ownership.
• Strengthen workforce development efforts through meaningful training, leadership development, and advancement opportunities.
• Contribute to organizational strategy, alignment, and decision making as a senior leader.

Build Relationships and Advance Community Partnerships

• Serve as a visible, trusted representative of Oak Hill within the community and among stakeholder groups.
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with families, guardians, community organizations, service providers, funders, and regulatory agencies.
• Partner closely with Development and Communications.
• Support the advancement of inclusive, community‑based services and opportunities for individuals served by Oak Hill.

Ensure Financial Stewardship and Operational Integrity

• Oversee financial management for Community Programs, including budget development, resource allocation, forecasting, and performance monitoring.
• Partner with Finance to identify risks, address variances, and ensure fiscal stewardship.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, licensing requirements, and accreditation standards.
• Promote a culture of accountability, transparency, and operational integrity.

Qualifications

• A master's degree in human services, business administration, or related field, and at least ten years of progressively responsible leadership experience, including five or more years in a senior administrative or managerial role.
• Experience leading complex budgets and financial operations in large, multi‑site or decentralized organizations.
• Deep familiarity with Medicaid‑funded services, regulatory compliance, and reporting requirements.
• Practical experience in systems serving individuals with intellectual, developmental, or related disabilities.
• Proven ability to assess organizational systems, drive operational improvement, and strengthen service quality at scale.
• Strong executive communication skills for Boards, leadership teams, staff, and external stakeholders.
• Cultural competency and experience working with diverse communities and stakeholder groups.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills using data‑driven decision making.
• Capacity to manage competing priorities, negotiate, and navigate complex stakeholder environments.
• Ability to lead effectively in high‑pressure or rapidly changing environments, including operational emergencies.
• High attention to detail with strong organizational skills and commitment to accurate documentation and reporting.
• Availability for on‑call consultation and support for emergencies 24/7.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision insurance with costs nearly 50 % below the national average.
• 403(b) retirement plan – 9.5 % contribution of gross earnings annually.
• Free long‑term disability insurance.
• Life insurance options – free and low‑cost plans.
• Generous time off: 5 weeks of paid vacation, personal days, sick time, and 12 holidays.

Oak Hill supports equality for and advancement of all people, based on their qualifications and actions alone, without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin, or disability.