What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Programs position at Helpful Hearts Health Services Inc?
Benefits:
At Helpful Hearts Health Services Inc., we believe in empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live lives of purpose, dignity, and connection. We’re a passionate, mission-driven DDA provider offering person-centered services that promote independence, inclusion, and real community integration.
We’re growing—and we’re looking for a compassionate, organized, and strategic leader to help us strengthen our programs and take our service delivery to the next level.
Position Summary:
The Director of Programs will lead the planning, development, and execution of all programs across our agency—including Community Living Group Homes, Personal Support, Community Development Services (CDS), Employment Services, Supported Living, Nursing Services, Transportation (OHCDS), and many more. This role is central to ensuring that every service we offer aligns with our mission, maintains compliance with DDA regulations, and most importantly—meets the needs of the individuals and families we support.
This person is not just an operations leader—they’re a builder of people, programs, and possibilities.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Oversight & Development
If you’re a compassionate leader who can see both the big picture and the daily details—and you’re ready to help transform lives—we want to hear from you. Send your resume and a brief cover letter to talents@helpfulheartshealthservices.com with the subject line “Director of Programs Application".
- Simple IRA Plan
- Competitive salary
- Training & development
At Helpful Hearts Health Services Inc., we believe in empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live lives of purpose, dignity, and connection. We’re a passionate, mission-driven DDA provider offering person-centered services that promote independence, inclusion, and real community integration.
We’re growing—and we’re looking for a compassionate, organized, and strategic leader to help us strengthen our programs and take our service delivery to the next level.
Position Summary:
The Director of Programs will lead the planning, development, and execution of all programs across our agency—including Community Living Group Homes, Personal Support, Community Development Services (CDS), Employment Services, Supported Living, Nursing Services, Transportation (OHCDS), and many more. This role is central to ensuring that every service we offer aligns with our mission, maintains compliance with DDA regulations, and most importantly—meets the needs of the individuals and families we support.
This person is not just an operations leader—they’re a builder of people, programs, and possibilities.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Oversight & Development
- Oversee the daily operations of all active DDA programs
- Ensure service delivery aligns with person-centered plans and meets DDA, COMAR, and Medicaid waiver standards
- Lead the development and implementation of new services and initiatives
- Regularly review and improve program structures, workflows, and documentation
- Supervise and support Program Managers, Team Leads, and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)
- Collaborate with HR to recruit, train, and retain high-quality team members
- Ensure all program staff are properly trained in MANDT, Emergency Preparedness, Cultural Sensitivity, Incident Reporting, and other key trainings
- Foster a culture of growth, communication, and accountability
- Partner with QA staff to monitor, document, and improve service quality
- Respond promptly and professionally to licensing inspections, regulatory visits, incident reports, and concerns from individuals, families, or guardians—ensuring transparency, accountability, and a commitment to quality care.
- Use data and feedback to identify trends and areas of improvement
- Participate in the creation and implementation of the agency’s Quality Assurance Plan
- Serve as a key liaison between our agency and service coordinators, families, and state agencies
- Attend IDT meetings and ensure proper follow-up and implementation of team decisions
- Collaborate with the CEO and leadership team on strategic planning and program expansion
- A heart for service—and a head for systems.
- Proven leadership experience in a DDA, human services, or Medicaid-funded setting
- Strong knowledge of Maryland’s DDA policies, regulations, and services
- 3 years of program management or senior-level operations experience
- Ability to lead with empathy, communicate effectively, and build trust across all levels
- Excellent organizational, writing, and critical thinking skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Healthcare Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- Experience working in or managing multiple DDA services
- Background in staff training, service coordination, or policy development
- An eye for data-driven improvement and systems thinking
- A calm presence under pressure—and a sense of humor when needed
- We’re a purpose-driven agency that truly puts people first
- You’ll help shape the future of services for individuals with disabilities in Maryland
- We offer a supportive, team-oriented environment with room to grow
- Competitive salary and benefits package
If you’re a compassionate leader who can see both the big picture and the daily details—and you’re ready to help transform lives—we want to hear from you. Send your resume and a brief cover letter to talents@helpfulheartshealthservices.com with the subject line “Director of Programs Application".