Executive Leader, Developmental Disabilities Transformation

State of Washington; Olympia (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; 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 (DDA).

This role leads a large agency with a biennial budget of about $6.2 billion and 4,000+ employees, guiding transformation, visibility, and community voice across services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Qualifications

• Executive-level experience leading directors, managers, and senior leaders across complex programs and operations.
• Ability to translate vision into actionable plans and measurable results.
• Strong collaboration with legislators, partners, and community voices.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Developmental Disabilities Administration through a critical transformation while preserving trust and community relationships.
• Set clear priorities, coordinate accountability, and ensure commitments are carried through across the administration.
• Strengthen relationships with lawmakers, federal partners, and communications leaders for effective advocacy and program delivery.
• Communicate proactively about priorities, challenges, and opportunities to diverse stakeholders.
• Provide steady, decisive leadership in a 4,000+ employee organization with a multi-billion biennial budget.

Skills

Executive leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field (social work, public admin, health care admin, business, finance)

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 (DDA).

This role leads a large agency with a biennial budget of about $6.2 billion and 4,000+ employees, guiding transformation, visibility, and community voice across services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.