Executive Leader, Developmental Disabilities Administration

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services; Lacey (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is seeking an experienced executive to serve as Assistant Secretary of the Developmental Disabilities Administration. The role will guide DDA through transformation, strengthen community voice, and ensure accountability across a 4,000-employee agency with a roughly $6.2 billion biennial budget.

You’ll lead strategic priorities, build trust with legislators and partners, and translate vision into action while maintaining continuity of

Qualifications

• Executive-level experience leading directors, managers, and other senior leaders across complex programs and operations is preferred.
• Experience leading programs, systems, or organizations that support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Lead DDA through the next phase, building alignment among employees and partners around the direction ahead.
• Build on DDA’s strong culture of community engagement while ensuring feedback and commitments lead to meaningful action.
• Strengthen accountability, coordination, and follow-through across the administration.
• Establish clear priorities and create alignment among teams, programs, and partners.
• Lead with sound judgment and steadiness in an environment where services and operational responsibilities continue around the clock.
• Strengthen relationships with legislators and build more intentional connections with federal partners, communications leaders, and others who can help advance and communicate DDA’s work.
• Communicate proactively about emerging issues, priorities, challenges, and opportunities.

Skills

Transformational Leadership

Accountability and Results

Community-Centered Leadership

Strategic Communication and Influence

Political Acumen

Collaboration and Partnership

Sound Judgment and Decision-Making

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, business administration, public administration, health care administration, finance, or a related field

Job description

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is seeking an experienced executive to serve as Assistant Secretary of the Developmental Disabilities Administration. The role will guide DDA through transformation, strengthen community voice, and ensure accountability across a 4,000-employee agency with a roughly $6.2 billion biennial budget.

You’ll lead strategic priorities, build trust with legislators and partners, and translate vision into action while maintaining continuity of