Director of Implementation and Innovation - Navigation (Project Management)

LifeWorks of Austin, TX is looking for a full-time Director of Implementation and Innovation to join our Navigation team! The Director of Implementation and Innovation (DII) leads program and system-level problem-solving, program development, and change management strategies to increase program efficiency, effectiveness and client outcomes.  The DII focuses on enhancing performance and increasing sustainability for existing program models as well as identifying opportunities for new projects or program models that align with LifeWorks' strategic direction and vision for continuum of services.  The DII assists in developing and maintaining partnerships with entities at the local, state, and national level and manages complex and sensitive interpersonal and political dynamics.  It works to maximize existing community resources and identifies opportunities to implement best practices and innovative solutions to meet client needs.  The DII is responsible for developing and incubating newly developed processes and pilot programming with the long-term goal to transition fully established operations to one of the core program divisions. 

The deadline to apply is Friday January 3rd, 2025.

The full time, exempt position earns a competitive rate ranging from $107,477.21-$117,449.33 depending upon experience. Benefits are also included, which consist of 24 PTO days per year (accrued); 15 paid holidays per year; a free employee medical plan with $100 per month HSA contribution (plus other affordable employee or family medical, dental, and vision options!); a retirement savings plan with 50% match on the first 6% of contributions, and much more!

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the planning, launch, incubation and roll-out of new and existing processes, procedures, partnerships and projects, including leading enhancements to existing programs; maintain attention on complex programming that function as part of a system of care as well as cross-functional projects that span across the housing, counseling, and education/workforce divisions.
• Lead or co-lead workgroups internally at LifeWorks to increase awareness of on-the-ground experiences, barriers and community context to inform exploration of opportunities for program improvements. Improvements may include revising service delivery tools, practices, training, and support protocols. 
• Collaborate closely with team members and senior and executive leaders to ensure strategic direction and ROI on key initiatives are supported and communicated.
• Lead or co-lead workgroups with external partners to develop community-wide, integrated programming and systems of care.
• Participate in the development of grant, contract, program, and project budgets. Work in partnership with grant procurement and compliance teams to develop tools and monitor budgets and track appropriate performance measures.
• Manages the assigned program budget(s), approves program expense reports, and makes budgeting recommendations.
• Responsible for the hiring, orientation, training, supervision, evaluation, and dismissal of direct reports in accordance with Agency policies and procedures. Oversee Program Coordinator and team of specialists responsible for implementation and operation of assigned initiatives.
• Holds staff accountable for meeting individual and program performance objectives, such as data quality and contract compliance requirements, by coaching, planning, monitoring, and appraising job results.
• Maintain broad awareness of systems (housing, child welfare, juvenile justice, etc.) including understanding the trends, priorities, players, and funding opportunities.
• Develop subject matter expertise and familiarity with the structure and operation of community entities, local coalitions, governments, and various other entities that influence youth services.
• Develop subject matter expertise in diverse topics, service models, and evidence-based practices that are relevant to services and programs provided by LifeWorks.
• Support the Chief Program Officer in cultivating and navigating strategic relationships with government agencies, community entities, local coalitions, philanthropic organizations, and other community providers.
• Work in partnership with the Research & Evaluation team to leverage internal and external data and research to identify best practices and opportunities for program refinement.
• Facilitate training and provide implementation support to internal and external programs to ensure accuracy in service delivery models, protocols, and processes, as appropriate.
• Prepares for and actively participates in supervision meetings and all other required meetings or trainings.
• Participate in program audits and compliance monitoring on an ongoing basis.
• Cultivate a healthy work culture that strives for excellence in client engagement, promotes dignity, and embraces accountability. Drive a person-first, client-centered paradigm in all aspects of policy and process development. 
• Work in partnership with Marketing and Communications team to represent the LifeWorks brand and key messaging within community conversations and awareness building efforts.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Requires a Bachelor's degree with a Master's degree preferred;
• Requires 7+ years of related experience, preferably in agencies and systems serving youth and/or individuals experiencing homelessness;
• Requires minimum 3 years of management experience including supervising, and leading teams and community level projects; or
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience using data in planning and evaluation.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite, preferred intermediate level Excel skills.
• Experience with change management, project management and performance improvement methodologies preferred.

ABOUT LIFEWORKS

With more than 50 years of experience working with youth experiencing homelessness, youth aging out of foster care, young adults, and young parents, we are a fearless advocate for youths who are on journeys to lives they love and stability for themselves and their families. LifeWorks goal is to be able to provide clients with the resources they need a place to call home, the chance to heal, and the opportunity to learn and to work. We have one of the most comprehensive continuums of housing and support options for vulnerable youth in the country. We are committed to innovative problem saving, shared accountability and a relentless focus on achieving real, sustainable, and measurable results for the clients we serve. A career at LifeWorks offers opportunities to grow and develop your professional skills while making an immediate difference in the lives of youth and families in our community.

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