Chief Administrative Officer

Overview

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Job Description - Chief Administrative Officer (250006B1)

Chief Administrative Officer - ( 250006B1 )

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Administrative Officer to advise the Commissioner on policy, stakeholder engagement, communications, and strategic management. Serving as a senior representative of the Department, the Chief Administrative Officer participates in executive-level meetings both internally and with external partners — including the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), other state agencies, and the Governor’s Office. Central to the agency’s mission, the Chief Administrative Officer provides strategic counsel to the Commissioner and Executive Leadership Team, guides the development of key policies and management initiatives, and ensures cross-operational compliance. The role oversees Government Affairs, Communications, and the Commissioner’s Office executive assistant team (and other staff as directed), interfaces with the Statewide Advisory Committee and other advisory bodies, and coordinates initiatives with Associate / Assistant Commissioners, Bureau Directors, and the General Counsel.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Commissioner at senior-level meetings across the agency, EOHHS, and with external partners; facilitate Commissioner’s Office participation, coordinate follow-up actions, and support decision-making on complex or sensitive policy and program matters
• Review and clear memoranda and other documents for the Commissioner’s signature; liaise with EOHHS and the Governor’s Office as needed
• Instruct senior staff on the content and context of materials; oversee preparation of information, data, and reports for analysis and expedited response
• Communicate with internal staff and external stakeholders on policy matters, managing expedited timelines for complex or controversial issues
• Collaborate with Associate / Assistant Commissioners and Unit Directors to troubleshoot and resolve policy and programmatic issues, with a focus on service provision
• Draft and review high-level briefings that define issues, provide context, and recommend concrete actions for the Commissioner, EOHHS, and the Governor’s Office
• Manage Legislative Affairs and Communications staff; supervise the Associate Commissioner for Complex Cases and Interagency Relations
• Oversee Department boards and commissions; supervise the Director of Human Rights
• Provide oversight for strategic planning initiatives and related reporting
• Oversee Central Office administrative functions, including supervision of the Commissioner’s Executive Assistant and coordination of administrative assignments and schedules

Qualifications

About the Department of Developmental Services

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.

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For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 Ext. #4.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS :

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC)may self-select out of opportunities if they don\'t meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

Details

Primary Location : Administrative Services, Department of Developmental Services

Job Posting : Sep 9, 2025, 4 : 38 : 14 PM

Number of Openings : 1

Salary : 130,046.62 - 201,801.22 Yearly

Schedule : Full-time

Shift : Day

Potentially Eligible for a Hybrid Work Schedule : Yes

Questions about Diversity / EOE or reasonable accommodation : Christina Hyppolite, Christina.R.Hyppolite@mass.gov, 8572835830

Bargaining Unit : M99-Managers (EXE)

Confidential : No

Source : MassCareers

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