Vice President, Behavioral Health

As University Health continues to grow, the Vice President of Behavioral Health plays a pivotal role in shaping clinical care and providing oversight for multiple University Health supported community-based behavioral health services. This position offers the opportunity to influence the future of behavioral health care across existing and future hospitals as well as outpatient facilities to enhance patient outcomes and improve experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership: Serve as the primary leader of Behavioral Health Services (BHS), acting as a liaison between the Chief Medical Officer and other stakeholders.
• Strategic Development: Stay informed on emerging healthcare models, identify innovative strategies, and work with leadership to effectively integrate behavioral health across University Health’s care model as well as in collaboration with multiple community stakeholders.
• Professional Development: Oversee and manage professional growth plans for direct reports, ensuring continuous enhancement of BHS strategies.
• Additional Functions:
  • Serves as the clinical champion for quality and patient safety for Behavioral Health Services across University Health clinical sites.
  • Provides clinical input to the strategic initiatives related to behavioral health care in the clinical and community setting.
  • Provides leadership to develop strategic direction, goals, and objectives for Behavioral Health Services and Trauma-Informed Care.
  • Serves as the primary psychiatric medical representative of University Health along the continuum of care regarding behavioral health issues and priorities including, but not limited to, Local Mental Health Authorities, Academic Affiliated Partners, local municipalities, and the Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council.
  • Develops strategies that facilitate partnerships, both internal and external, to achieve high-quality patient outcomes and well-coordinated patient care.
  • Works closely with nursing and other clinical support departments to encourage an environment of cooperation to address the behavioral health needs of patients.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in behavioral health. Current clinical practice experience and a strong track record of team management with successful initiative execution highly preferred.
• Licensure: Active medical license to practice in the State of Texas.
• Education: Medical degree required; Board Certification in Psychiatry is mandatory.
• Communication Skills: Ability to convey information clearly, adapt to diverse audiences, resolve conflicts diplomatically, and foster engagement and trust.
• Critical Thinking: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to integrate facts, listen actively, and make informed, collaborative decisions.

Why Join University Health?

University Health is a nationally recognized academic medical center and a Level I Trauma Center, serving the entire South Texas region. University Health has its own physician practice group, University Medicine Associates, and partnerships with affiliated academic institutions including UT Health San Antonio, Texas A&M Health, and the University of the Incarnate Word School of Medicine. University Hospital serves as a foundation for expanding health services across Bexar County and South Texas that includes two new Community Hospitals opening in the first quarter of 2027 and several new outpatient locations for primary and specialty care services. Consistently ranked among the best hospitals in Texas and the San Antonio region by U.S. News & World Report, the Leapfrog Group, and the Lown Institute, University Health offers an environment that values high quality compassionate patient care, exceptional employee experiences, professional collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Total Rewards:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Extensive ancillary benefits
• Paid Time Off
• Retirement plans
• Prescription drug coverage
• Flexible Spending Account
• Pet Insurance

University Health, located in San Antonio, Texas, boasts a rich historical heritage and a vibrant culture. The city offers an array of attractions, including the world-famous River Walk, the historic Alamo, and a thriving nightlife. With a lower cost of living compared to other major cities, excellent dining options, museums, amusement parks, and scenic outdoor trails, San Antonio provides an exceptional quality of life.

University Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply now and be a part of shaping the future of Behavioral Health!