Chief Operations Officer

Chief Operations Officer (COO) – Behavioral Healthcare Position Summary

The COO provides executive leadership over all operational functions of the behavioral health organization, ensuring high‑quality, compliant, and financially sustainable delivery of mental health and substance use services. This role oversees daily operations, strategic initiatives, regulatory adherence, and cross‑departmental coordination to support exceptional patient care and organizational growth.

• Direct daily operations across inpatient, outpatient, and clinic programs
• Develop, implement, and optimize workflows, policies, and procedures to ensure efficient service delivery
• Lead performance improvement initiatives focused on patient outcomes, access, and operational efficiency

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and accrediting‑body regulations (CMS, Joint Commission, state behavioral health agencies)

• Partner with the CEO and CFO on budgeting, forecasting, and financial strategy
• Monitor operational KPIs, productivity metrics, and cost‑efficiency targets
• Support contract management, payer relations, and revenue cycle processes
• Evaluate and implement technology solutions that improve operational and clinical performance

• Lead operational components of new program development, service line expansion, and partnership initiatives
• Analyze market trends and community needs to guide strategic decisions

• Build and mentor high‑performing operational teams
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and patient‑centered care
• Strengthen communication across clinical, administrative, and executive teams
• Represent operations in board meetings, executive committees, and community partnerships

• 7–10+ years of progressive leadership experience in behavioral health or healthcare operations
• Strong knowledge of mental health, substance use, and integrated care systems
• Demonstrated success in regulatory compliance, financial management, and operational optimization
• Excellent communication, analytical, and leadership skills
• Strategic thinking and long‑range planning
• Crisis management and problem solving
• Change management and process improvement
• Collaborative leadership and team development

• Medical Director partnership expectations
• Experience with Medicaid/Medicare managed care
• Experience with inpatient psychiatric operations