• Chief Program Officer

The Lafayette House located in Joplin, Missouri has supported individuals and families struggling with issues surrounding domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance use disorders since 1978. Lafayette House is committed to providing a standard of care that seeks supportive, wrap-around services to meet individual and family needs with a goal of independence, empowerment, and safety in everyday living.
 
Our organization is seeking to fill a newly created position: Chief Program Officer. The Chief Program Officer (CPO) is a key executive leadership role reporting directly to the Executive Director. This position is responsible for the strategic direction, development, implementation, and evaluation of all programs across the organization's multi-county service areas: seven counties for domestic violence and sexual assault programs, and three counties for substance use disorder programs.
The CPO ensures alignment of all programs with the organization's mission, vision, and values while maintaining the highest standards of care and operational efficiency. This dynamic leader will integrate clinical expertise with program management to drive innovation, quality improvement, and positive client outcomes. The role is crucial in shaping the organization's future, fostering interdepartmental collaboration, and representing the organization to external stakeholders.
As a pivotal member of the executive team, the CPO will position the organization as a leader in the fields of domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance use disorder treatment.
This is a salaried, exempt executive position as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor, with hours and schedule established to fulfill the role's responsibilities.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

1. Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of comprehensive, evidence-based programs addressing the complex needs of clients experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance use disorders.
2. Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to establish and execute long-term strategic goals, ensuring alignment across all organizational functions.
3. Oversee daily operations of all program areas, ensuring seamless integration, coordination, and compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
4. Develop and manage program budgets, implementing data-driven decision-making processes to optimize resource allocation, effectiveness, and efficiency.
5. Recruit, develop, and retain a diverse, highly skilled team, fostering a positive work environment that promotes engagement, innovation, and excellence in service delivery.
6. Ensure all clinical decisions and practices adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards, promoting a trauma-informed and client-centered approach across all programs.
7. Design and implement an integrated care model addressing the interconnected needs of clients, continuously refining based on feedback and emerging best practices.
8. Develop and maintain comprehensive crisis management and continuity plans for all programs.
9. Serve as a key representative of the organization in community forums, professional associations, and advocacy initiatives, cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders to enhance service coordination and expand impact.
10. Stay informed of industry trends, emerging technologies, and innovations, leading their evaluation and implementation to enhance service delivery and client engagement.
11. Oversee the maintenance of accurate and timely clinical documentation and program records, collaborating with the executive team to identify and mitigate potential risks.
12. Participate in executive-level decision-making processes, contributing to the overall strategic direction of the organization and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
13. Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

1. Master's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a closely related field; current and valid clinical license in the state of Missouri (e.g., LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or Clinical Psychologist).
2. Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit, healthcare, or social service settings, with at least 3 years in a senior management role, demonstrating expertise in program development, implementation, and evaluation.
3. Proven expertise in the treatment and care of individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, substance use disorders, and related trauma, with a strong understanding of evidence-based practices and trauma-informed care.
4. Outstanding leadership abilities with a track record of building and motivating high-performing teams in complex service environments.
5. Superior communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and stay current with trends in behavioral health and social services.

1. Experience working in a multi-county or regional service delivery model.
2. Knowledge of federal and state funding streams related to domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance use disorder services.
3. Familiarity with quality improvement methodologies and performance management systems.
4. Experience with electronic health records (EHR) systems and data analytics for program evaluation.

1. Visionary and ethical leadership, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and maintain the highest standards of client care and professional conduct.
2. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, combining exceptional problem-solving abilities with a solutions-oriented approach to complex challenges.
3. Excellent organizational and time management skills, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in managing multiple high-priority initiatives in a dynamic environment.
4. High emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust across diverse stakeholder groups, including staff, clients, and external partners.
5. Expertise in crisis intervention strategies and the ability to lead teams effectively in high-stress situations.
6. Proficiency in program evaluation methodologies, with the ability to translate data into actionable insights for continuous program improvement.
7. Comprehensive knowledge of relevant state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance use disorder treatment programs.

1. The projected compensation for this position is based on education and experience, starting at $80,000 to $95,000.
2. Compensation is enhanced through a strong benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance, an Employee Assistance Program, PTO, and a retirement package.