Vice President, Compliance

job summary:

The Vice President of Compliance is responsible for leading the organization’s compliance department which oversees the organization’s ongoing adherence to applicable laws, regulations, accreditation and certification standards, privacy and confidentiality requirements, and internal policies.  The VP of Compliance acts as the agency’s Compliance Officer and ensures that the organization operates with integrity while upholding client rights and maintaining a commitment to mental and behavioral health regulatory standards. This position involves the development, implementation, monitoring, and management of the organization’s compliance program and internal audit processes. The role works closely with executive leadership, legal counsel, and clinical program leadership to foster a culture of compliance and ensure ongoing regulatory readiness. This position plays a vital role in safeguarding the organization and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance across all facets of client care delivery.

POSITION SPECIFIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:    

Compliance Program Leadership:

• Develop, implement, and oversee an effective compliance program, including policies, procedures, and training.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.
• Monitor changes in laws and regulations that affect the mental and behavioral health care industry and adjust the compliance program accordingly.

 Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and standards, including Medicare, Medicaid, and other payer requirements.
• Collaborate with the legal department and clinical program teams to ensure all treatment practices, business practices, documentation, privacy practices and billing are compliant with relevant regulatory standards and requirements.
• Oversee audits and investigations related to compliance matters and take corrective actions as needed.

 Internal Audit:

• Lead the internal audit process to identify areas of potential vulnerability or areas for improvement.
• Develop corrective action plans for compliance issues, implement mitigation strategies, and monitor implementation and adherence.

 Training and Development:

• Create and conduct compliance training for employees at all levels of the organization.
• Ensure that staff understand their responsibilities related to compliance and ethical standards.
• Promote a culture of compliance and ethical behavior throughout the organization.

 Reporting and Documentation:

• Report on compliance activities to the executive leadership team and the board of directors.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation of compliance activities, audits, and corrective actions.
• Maintain detailed records of all compliance initiatives and investigations.
• Ensure that reporting to regulatory agencies (e.g., SAMHSA, state mental health boards) complies with mental health-specific requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of compliance activities, particularly related to privacy, consent, and mental health services billing.

 Collaboration and Leadership:

• Collaborate with various departments, including clinical programs, legal, HR, IT, finance, revenue cycle management, and CQI to align compliance efforts across the organization.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory agencies and accreditation bodies such as the Council on Accreditation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the compliance team to support the organization’s objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS

education:

• Bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, public health, mental health, law, or a related field required;
• Master's degree in Public Health (MPH), Health Administration (MHA), Business Administration (MBA), or a related field, or Juris Doctorate strongly preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

• At least 10 years of experience in healthcare compliance, with a focus on mental health services or behavioral health preferred, and at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Compliance Officer experience preferred.

PERFORMANCE COMPETENCIES: 

• Compliance Program Development and Management
• Regulatory Compliance
• Compliance Training
• Internal Audit
• Privacy and Confidentiality
• Compliance Reporting and Documentation
• Collaboration and Leadership

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Strong leadership, communication, critical thinking and analytical skills; ability to manage complex compliance issues and work with cross-functional teams.
• Excellent strategic, organizational, communication, project management and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of healthcare laws, regulations, and industry standards (e.g., HIPAA, Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, SAMHSA and ODMHSAS guidelines and rules, and state mental health laws).
• Ability to manage discreetly and professionally any sensitive compliance issues.
• Ability to influence and build consensus across the organization.
• Proficiency in relevant software and technology tools for compliance management and monitoring.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize workload, and adapt quickly to changing priorities in a dynamic environment. 

CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES:

• Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) or other relevant health compliance certifications (e.g., Certified in Healthcare Privacy Compliance - CHPC) preferred.
• Clinical license if applicable
• Oklahoma State Bar License if applicable
• Must possess a valid Driver License and satisfactory driving record to use agency and/or personal automobile to travel to locations other than primary office.
• Must possess a valid Driver License and satisfactory driving record to use agency and/or personal automobile to travel to locations other than primary office and/or for the transportation of clients.

OTHER INFORMATION

SAFETY SENSITIVE JOB CLASSIFICATION:

This job is classified as a “safety-sensitive” position as defined by the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act.  Due to the “safety-sensitive” classification, an employee in this position would be subject to drug and alcohol testing, including random testing.  Marijuana is one of the substances included in the drug panel screening.  Possession of a medical marijuana license will not excuse you from the testing process or the consequences of testing positive for marijuana per the Family & Children’s Services Drug Free Workplace Policy, including possible revocation of a job offer or dismissal from employment.