Director, Program Initiatives

Title : Director, Program Initiatives

Location : Various locations throughout the Chicago area

Schedule : On-Site Monday to Friday (8 : 30am-5 : 00pm) Weekends and evenings as needed

Summary :

Lead with Purpose and Drive Lasting Impact

The Director, Program Initiatives plays a vital leadership role within the SAFEty program, providing strategic direction, operational stability, and forward-thinking guidance that strengthens Heartland Human Care Services’ (HHCS) Youth Residential Services (YRS). This position is ideal for a mission-driven leader who thrives on solving complex challenges and helping teams grow through structure, accountability, and compassion.

As a trusted advisor and servant-leader, the Director supports Program and Assistant Directors across multiple residential sites to ensure operational excellence, compliance, and consistency in service delivery. You’ll champion best practices, guide teams through change, and build systems that empower staff to focus on what matters most—delivering exceptional care to youth in our programs.

This senior leadership role also contributes to strategic decision-making, working closely with executive leadership to align operational performance with HHCS’s broader mission and funder expectations.

The Director, Program Initiatives leverages expertise and leadership to promote the mission and vision of Heartland Human Care Services while supporting a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals seeking education and career pathways.
• Collaborate with a diverse and passionate team dedicated to the mission and vision of our organization.
• Providing flexibility and work-life balance.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and expertise.

Our Benefits :

Essential Functions :

Duties & Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Support

Strategic Planning & Collaboration

Supervisory Responsibilities (if applicable) :

Supervision & Coaching

Education and Experience :

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities (K / S / A) :

Work Arrangement :

This is an in-person role with regular rotation across all residential sites. Flexibility required to support 24 / 7 operations and respond to emergent needs.

Work Environment :

Physical Demands :

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

HHCS is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. HHCS is committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. Consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, HHCS prohibits discrimination or harassment against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression), national origin, citizenship, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all employment practices, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, training, discipline, and termination. HHCS also provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law.

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