Peers Program Director

First Choice Services Inc; West Virginia; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

First Choice Services in West Virginia seeks a Director of Peer Programs to provide strategic leadership and oversee the PRSS function, delivering recovery-oriented services that promote hope, wellness, and community integration. You will manage budgets, supervise Peer Recovery Support Specialists, and drive continuous improvement while collaborating with executive leadership and partner agencies.

This role requires strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, travel for partner sites, and a

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or Addictions preferred.
• Three years lived experience with substance use disorder.
• WVCBAPP Certified as a PRSS Supervisor, or committed to completing the certification process within a year.
• Strong understanding of recovery principles, peer support models, and behavioral health systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement program strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Oversee daily operations and service delivery.
• Prepare and manage departmental budgets.
• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing staff; provide coaching and performance management.
• Meet regularly in-person with remote teams and partner agencies.
• Lead continuous quality improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic thinking

Team management

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services

PRSS Supervisor certification

Lived experience with SUD

Tools

Microsoft Office

Web-based case management

Job description

AGENCY AND MISSIONFirst Choice Services is a 501c3 non-profit organization. First Choice Services provides free support through helplines, behavioral health training, and expert guidance. We connect individuals, families, and communities to real help. We are proud to offer the lived experience of our team to support, encourage, and help others find a pathway to wellness.POSITION OVERVIEWThe Director of Peer Programs provides strategic leadership, oversight, and management of the PRSS function. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, recovery-oriented services that promote hope, wellness, self-direction, and community integration. The role is responsible for developing operational strategies, ensuring effective service delivery, managing budgets and resources, leading teams, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that support organizational objectives.REPORTING RELATIONSHIPThe Director of Peer Programs reports to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The position’s direct reports include all FCS Peer Program staff (Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS), Recovery Coaches, and Program Coordinators).ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONSStrategic LeadershipDevelop and implement program strategies aligned with organizational goals.Establish annual objectives, performance measures, and key results.Advise executive team on operational and strategic matters related to PRSS activities.Identify opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and growth.Collaborate with Director of Marketing and Communications on media, marketing and outreach.Collaborate with FCS Program Directors to enhance interagency efficiencies and client outcomes.Operations ManagementOversee daily operations and service delivery.Ensure compliance with organizational policies, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.Monitor performance metrics and implement corrective actions when necessary.Develop and maintain operational procedures and best practices.Coordinate and execute the annual Peer Recovery Retreat.Financial ManagementPrepare and manage departmental budgets.Monitor expenditures and optimize resource utilization.Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service quality.Prepare financial and operational reports as needed.Team LeadershipRecruit, develop, and retain high-performing staff.Collaborate with Director of Training and Development to enhance staff performance.Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance management.Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.Lead change management initiatives.Meet regularly in-person with remote teams.Collaborate with Employee Services department to manage team members.Provide peer supervision hours specific to the domains outlined by the WVCBAPP.Professional Network LeadershipBuild strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.Represent the department in conferences, executive meetings, community forums, and partner engagements.Address stakeholder concerns and ensure high levels of satisfaction.Meet regularly in-person with partner agencies.Continuous Quality ImprovementEstablish quality standards and performance benchmarks.Analyze operational data and trends to improve effectiveness.Lead process improvement and organizational excellence initiatives.Attend conferences, community meetings and other learning opportunities.QUALIFICATIONSEducation and ExperienceWVCBAPP Peer Recovery Support Specialist CertificationBachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or Addictions preferredThree years lived experience with substance use disorderExperience in peer support, crisis intervention, and suicide preventionWVCBAPP Certified as a PRSS Supervisor, or committed to completing the certification process within a year.Knowledge and SkillsStrong understanding of recovery principles, peer support models, and behavioral health systems.Knowledge of trauma-informed, person-centered, and culturally responsive care.Strong organizational and project management abilities.Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.Strong professional ethics and judgement.Strategic thinking and problem-solving expertise.Financial and operational management proficiency.Project and change management experience.Ability to build partnerships, lead teams and influence stakeholders.Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based case management platformsAbility to actively listen giving full attention to others and seeking understandingResilience and composure while dealing with frustration, unpleasantness and stressful circumstances.WORK ENVIRONMENTThe primary work environment is a climate controlled, contact center environment. The position requires both prolonged periods of desk work using computer and phone, as well as a good deal of travel for meetings and remote work at partner sites and other FCS offices. This is not a work from home position.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities)Limited physical effort required with limited exposure to physical risk.Must be willing and able to travel involving overnight stays that may include multiple nights.Ability to lift 35 pounds unassisted. Heavier weight with assistance.Ability to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as required.EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER