Deputy Associate Commissioner

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.

The Deputy Associate Commissioner for Regional Operations, under the direction and close collaboration with the Associate Commissioner of Health Care Regulation and collaboration with the Deputy Associate Commissioner of Program Operations, directs all operations, planning, policy development, and activities for Regional Operations, comprised of the Health Facility Compliance Unit and the Architectural Review Unit. Performs highly advanced managerial work developing, directing, and executing the strategic planning for Regional Operations. Develops, implements and evaluates goals and objectives of the Health Facility Compliance and Architectural Units within HCR. Develops, implements and evaluates program standards, policies, and rules. Represents the agency through interactions with national, local and statewide groups, and federal, state, and local regulatory initiatives. Promotes partnerships by encouraging stakeholder collaboration and participation in opportunities to define desired outcomes for the department. Works under limited supervision with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.  

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

Leadership and Strategic Direction (25%)

The Deputy Associate Commissioner (DAC) of Regional Operations collaborates closely with the Associate Commissioner of Health Care Regulation and the Deputy Associate Commissioner of Program Operations to implement the objectives of Health Care Regulation (HCR) and ensure alignment with the strategic direction set by HHSC Executive Leadership. The DAC provides overarching vision, leadership, and strategic guidance for the department, ensuring effective program execution and regulatory excellence. This role brings strong leadership, management, and oversight to the directors of the Health Facility Compliance and Architectural Review Units, fostering a high-performing, mission-driven organizational culture. The DAC leads efforts to support a unified culture across regional teams, encouraging collaboration, shared values, and consistent practices.

Daily Operational Oversight (25%)

The DAC of Regional Operations is responsible for the following key operational duties:

The Deputy Associate Commissioner (DAC) of Regional Operations is responsible for leading and managing the daily operations of the Health Facility Compliance and Architectural units within Health Care Regulation (HCR), ensuring effective program administration and service delivery. The DAC ensures that regional operations staff understand and embody the department’s vision and goals. This role includes developing and executing strategic and operational plans for the Regional Operations team, setting clear milestones and performance targets, and making necessary course corrections to maintain alignment with agency priorities. The DAC cultivates a skilled, engaged, and well-supported workforce by guiding the management team and ensuring their efforts align with the strategic vision of the Regulatory Services Division.

Responsibilities also include overseeing the development and implementation of measurable goals and objectives, evaluating program performance, and leading continuous improvement initiatives. The DAC facilitates collaboration across health facility compliance regions, the architectural review unit, and  the Program Operations team to enhance regulatory efficiency and service delivery. Additionally, the DAC ensures compliance with all applicable laws, policies, and best practices, approves key operational documents, and proactively addresses non-compliance issues.

Staff Development and Program Oversight (20%)
The Deputy Associate Commissioner (DAC) of Regional Operations provides strategic leadership and daily oversight to ensure the effective execution of Health Care Regulation (HCR) programs. This role fosters a culture of professionalism, accountability, and collaboration across a dispersed, multidisciplinary teams, including clinical, policy, and administrative staff.

The DAC is responsible for guiding the development and alignment of staff priorities, initiatives, and work schedules with organizational goals and performance metrics. This includes overseeing the implementation of program requirements and ensuring operational excellence across regional operations. The DAC is responsible for managing remote or distributed teams, ensuring alignment and productivity across locations.

Additionally, the DAC actively engages in staff development efforts, including professional training, performance evaluations, and the recruitment and mentoring of team members to build a high-performing, mission-driven workforce.

Regulatory Reporting and Compliance Oversight (20%)

The Deputy Associate Commissioner (DAC) of Regional Operations oversees responses to external reporting requirements and inquiries, including those from CMS, legislative bodies, and the media. The DAC ensures timely, accurate submissions and may represent HCR in public forums and hearings. This role requires knowledge of the CMS State Operations Manual, the State Performance Standards System (SPSS), and other federally mandated reporting tools to maintain compliance and support regulatory oversight.

Fiscal Management and Resource Allocation (10%)

The Deputy Associate Commissioner (DAC) of Regional Operations is responsible for managing departmental resources to achieve strategic goals and objectives in a fiscally responsible and efficient manner. The DAC provides leadership in the development of the department’s Legislative Appropriations Request (LAR) and oversees the strategic allocation of funds to support regional operations. This role also includes managing internal budget development and financial reporting processes to ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with agency priorities across all program areas.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Strategic Leadership and Vision

Demonstrated ability to anticipate future trends, identify long-term opportunities and challenges, and develop a clear, actionable vision aligned with organizational goals.

Knowledge of and experience in the development and implementation of operational plans for large organizations.

Demonstrated knowledge of provider services operations within Health Care Regulation and HHSC, including the agency’s strategic plan, policies, hospital standards, key programs, and critical issues.

Executive Communication and Collaboration

Ability to effectively communicate complex ideas and strategic priorities to diverse stakeholders, fostering collaboration across executive leadership, internal teams, and external partners.

Ability to represent the agency before various groups and to work effectively with state and local officials, community leaders, and the media.

Ability to organize and present information effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Team Development and Performance Management

Knowledge of and experience leading and supervising large and distributed teams.

Ability to build and nurture high-performing teams through clear expectations, coaching, and performance management strategies.

Proven skill in driving change initiatives across distributed teams, ensuring consistent implementation of organizational goals while adapting to regional needs and dynamics

Skill in developing effective partnerships with staff, consumers and their families, advocacy groups, and professional associations.

Regulatory and Legislative Expertise

Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws related to the program area, including the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and HHSC policies and procedures.

Knowledge of and experience in analyzing legislation, implementing legislative initiatives, and representing the agency in legislative offices and committee meetings.

Skill in establishing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Public Administration and Fiscal Management

Knowledge of public administration principles and management techniques.

Ability to develop and deploy policies to govern organizational operations.

Experience in budget planning, resource allocation, and financial oversight in a public sector environment.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities

Ability to analyze and solve complex problems and make effective decisions impacting large-scale operations.

Skill in developing and implementing innovative services or programs, particularly for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Technology Proficiency

Proficient in the use of computers and agency/facility software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook, and SharePoint.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Minimum of four (4) years of management experience in a healthcare-related field.

Proven experience in establishing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Demonstrated ability to use data to inform decision-making and drive operational improvements.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience responding to legislative, media, or public inquiries.

Experience managing clinical staff, including responsibilities for performance oversight, training, and operational coordination.

The following are preferred:

Master’s degree in a clinical, healthcare administration, or related field.

Experience working within the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) or in a healthcare facility regulated by the state of Texas.

Expertise in healthcare regulation and survey processes, including knowledge of federal and state regulations governing healthcare facilities (e.g., CMS regulations, State Operations Manual).

Direct experience conducting facility inspections, enforcing compliance, or overseeing regulatory activities.

Demonstrated success in developing and implementing operational or strategic plans for large organizations or departments.

Experience in creating and directing policies that guide the operations of a complex organization or department.

Additional Information:

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

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 on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, 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 with you 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 need.

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

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 on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, 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 with you 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.