Deputy Director - job 3 of 15

The Deputy Director at the Administration for Children’s Services will oversee the Professional Development Program, ensuring high-quality learning opportunities for the workforce. This includes managing practicum and internship activities, supporting scholarship programs, and nurturing partnerships with educational institutions. You'll also facilitate supervision for social work students and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders to enhance program delivery.

To qualify for the Deputy Director position at the Administration for Children’s Services, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and four years of progressively responsible experience in social services, including at least one year in a managerial role. Equivalent education or experience is also acceptable, but a relevant degree is mandatory.

The Deputy Director plays a pivotal role in the Professional Development Program at ACS by managing activities that elevate workforce skills. This includes providing oversight for internships, facilitating educational seminars, and establishing professional relationships with schools of social work. The Deputy Director also coordinates with faculty groups and maintains quality control of the educational programs, ensuring a strong foundation for social services.

ACS promotes an inclusive and collaborative environment for the Deputy Director role, where diverse perspectives are valued, and innovation is encouraged. As a commitment to diversity and equal opportunity, the Administration for Children’s Services fosters a workplace free from discrimination, ensuring that all employees can thrive and contribute effectively to the mission of child welfare.

The Deputy Director at ACS may engage in various collaborations, such as forming partnerships with educational institutions to create robust internship programs or working with provider agencies to enhance service delivery. These collaborations are crucial for supporting educational interventions and sustaining effective practices within social services.

To effectively manage relationships with provider agencies, I would prioritize open communication, regular check-ins, and collaborative planning sessions to address common goals. Building trust and understanding their needs will foster a productive partnership, ensuring we can collectively improve service delivery.

In my previous roles, I have implemented strategies for program evaluation by establishing key performance indicators, collecting data through surveys and assessments, and using that information to refine programs. I believe maintaining quality in our services is essential for achieving our mission of supporting child welfare.

My approach to conflict resolution involves listening actively to all parties, understanding differing perspectives, and facilitating a discussion aimed at finding common ground. I believe in fostering an open and respectful environment, which often helps resolve conflicts amicably.

I have successfully managed educational programs by developing curricula, overseeing instructors, and monitoring outcomes to ensure alignment with the strategic goals of the organization. I also prioritize feedback from participants to continuously improve the learning opportunities offered.

Supporting social work students requires a robust framework, such as providing mentorship, regular feedback sessions, and aligning their hands-on experiences with theoretical knowledge. I would also facilitate group discussions to encourage peer support and learning.

To enhance the skills of the ACS workforce, I would focus on identifying areas for improvement through assessments and surveys. I would then design tailored training programs and connect them with opportunities for advanced education, ensuring our staff is well-equipped to serve the community effectively.

I would regularly engage with professional networks, attend relevant conferences, and subscribe to industry publications to stay abreast of trends in social services. Additionally, collaborating with educational institutions can provide insights into emerging research and best practices.

I welcome feedback as a constructive measure. I would address any concerns by first seeking clarity, then implementing changes where feasible, and communicating back to leadership the actions taken. This transparency builds trust and shows I value their input.

To ensure compliance with quality standards, I would regularly conduct program evaluations, engage with stakeholders for feedback, and stay informed about regulatory requirements. This proactive approach allows us to maintain high-quality education offerings.

I believe in a collaborative management style that empowers team members to voice their ideas and take ownership of their work. This approach fosters a strong sense of community and transformation within social services, resulting in better outcomes for the populations we serve.