DSHS Assistant Secretary, Developmental Disabilities Administration

About The Role The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is seeking an executive leader to serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). DDA is entering a transformation phase focused on easier access to services, supporting transitions, strengthening service availability, and ensuring individuals have a greater voice and choice. The Assistant Secretary oversees a workforce of over 4,000 employees, eight direct reports, and a biennial budget of approximately $6.2 billion. Key Responsibilities - Lead DDA through its next phase, building alignment among employees and partners. - Build on community engagement culture, ensuring feedback leads 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 in a 24/7 operational environment. - Strengthen relationships with legislators, federal partners, and communications leaders. - Communicate proactively about emerging issues, priorities, challenges, and opportunities. Minimum Qualifications 1. A bachelor's degree in social work, human services, business administration, public administration, health care administration, finance, or a related field is preferred but not required. 2. Executive-level experience leading directors, managers, and senior leaders across complex programs and operations is preferred. 3. Experience leading programs, systems, or organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families is preferred. 4. Competencies include transformational leadership, accountability and results, community-centered leadership, strategic communication and influence, political and stakeholder acumen, collaboration and partnership, and sound judgment and decision-making. Special Requirements 1. Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. 2. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. 3. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance. 4. Must disclose any relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within the potential supervisory chain of command to comply with nepotism policies. Selection Process 1. Applications received by September 4th will receive priority consideration. 2. Anticipated appointment is as early as November 2026. 3. Confidential review of applications begins immediately and continues until an appointment is made. How To Apply - Submit a resume and letter of interest to Tracie.Kidd@dshs.wa.gov. - The letter of interest should highlight how experience aligns with the outlined leadership competencies and capabilities. - Persons requiring accommodation may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810 or via Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384. Employment Details - Location: Thurston County - Olympia, WA - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid - Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services - Division: DDA - Employer: State of Washington - DSHS is an equal opportunity employer.