Director of Strategic Operations

Date: Apr 10, 2026

Location: Austin, TX

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full‑time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Functional Title: Director of Strategic Operations
Job Title: Director IV
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Contract Operations
Posting Number: 15794
Closing Date: 05/01/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Management
Salary Range: $8,488.33 - $13,333.34
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-29
Shift: Day
Travel: Up to 10%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Facility Location: AUSTIN
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST
Other Locations: MOS Codes: 8003,8040,8041,8042,10C0,111X,112X,113X,114X,20C0,30C0,40C0,611X,612X,631X,641X,648X,90G0,91C0,91W0,97E0,SEI15

Brief Job Description

The Health and Human Services (HHS) Director of Strategic Operations performs highly advanced executive‑level managerial work providing vision, leadership, and strategic direction for the department. The position reports to the Director of System Support Services (SSS), leads the daily operations for managing and directing complex support services, which include asset management, records management, emergency management, contract management, HHS customer service receptionists, audio visual and web services, and printing services. The director provides executive‑level reporting, manages a multi‑million‑dollar budget, sets goals and objectives for support services, and ensures resources are appropriately acquired and effectively utilized in compliance with regulations and policies.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

• Provides strategic planning, guidance, and direction for HHS system‑wide functions: asset management, records management, emergency management, printing services, and customer service receptionist operations; serves as the HHS Records Management Officer.
• Provides overall program vision, leadership, and strategic direction for achieving department goals and legislative mandates; directs overall planning, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of support services to ensure timely delivery as described in support service agreements.
• Provides oversight and direction to the HHS print shop and key system support contracts.
• Directs staff on special projects and initiatives; facilitates meetings, delivers presentations, and produces high‑quality written reports and briefings; communicates effectively with internal and external stakeholders to foster a culture of open communication.
• Assesses workforce needs and develops strategies and plans; directs development of workforce with appropriate knowledge, technical skills, and competencies; oversees management and staff tasks such as hiring, performance evaluations, recommendations for personnel actions, disciplinary measures, and leave management.
• Coordinates development of the Strategic Operations department budget and Legislative Appropriations Requests; reviews and makes management decisions regarding budget and staff allocation; advises on status and progress of support services programs; recommends methods for effective utilization of resources.
• Provides information and testimony and presents to the HHSC legislative offices or committees, other state and federal agencies, and other organizations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of state and federal laws related to property management, emergency management, contract management, and budgeting.
• Principles and practices of public administration and management including strategic planning, budgeting, and contract management.
• State of Texas legislative process.
• HHS policies and procedures.
• Leadership principles for managing staff at various levels and effectively utilizing agency resources.
• Project management principles and best practices.

Skill In

• Analytical, strategic conceptual thinking, planning, and execution.
• Budget planning, financial management, and ensuring best ROI for department initiatives.
• Leadership, verbal and written communication, public speaking, explaining complex concepts to business leaders and workforce.
• Managing complex, statewide support services while effectively handling multiple competing priorities.

Ability To

• Develop and communicate a vision that aligns with business strategy and motivates staff.
• Effectively communicate with executives, elected officials, and external stakeholders, orally and in writing.
• Understand business drivers and translate objectives into actionable strategies.
• Provide high‑quality customer service to internal and external constituencies.
• Lead major change initiatives, process improvements, manage organizational change, and ensure adaptation to technical advancements.
• Build partnerships that foster productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Acquire and administer operational resources, plan, assign, and supervise work effectively.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures; prepare clear, concise reports to support decision‑making.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria

• Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university (relevant work experience may be substituted on a year‑for‑year basis up to four years).
• Five (5) years of full‑time leadership experience with formal responsibility for managing a public sector entity, division, or program, including direct supervision of employees.
• General experience working with contracts, including familiarity with contract terms and requirements.
• Demonstrated experience in planning, implementing, and executing initiatives into organizational objectives.
• Experience preparing and delivering formal presentations or briefings.
• Experience in developing and managing large complex budgets.
• Experience working with the State of Texas legislative process (preferred).

Additional Information

N/A

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans

All active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position.

ADA Accommodations

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the online application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1‑888‑894‑4747.

Pre‑Employment Checks And Work Eligibility

Applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks. HHSC uses E‑Verify. You must bring your I‑9 documentation on your first day of work. Download the I‑9 Form.

Telework Disclaimer

This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.

Nearest Major Market

Austin

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