Director of Strategic Initiatives

Job Description :

The Director of Strategic Initiatives is selected by and reports to the Deputy Chief Information Officer (DCIO) for Administration and Finance to support all aspects of business operations for HHS Information Technology.

This individual is a team player, independent starter and thrives in a fast paced environment.

Responsibilities of this individual will include a wide range of duties such as overseeing and supporting HHS IT on legislative initiatives and related activities;

managing IT policy development; reviewing and approving all IT communications; leading or assisting in special projects as directed by the DCIO for Administration and Finance.

This individual will have extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment, including planning and assigning work to others. Essential Job Functions :

40%) Oversees the development of legislative initiatives, supporting documents and other materials for HHS IT, and maintains excellent coordination, communication, and collaboration with other divisions within HHSC and DSHS.

25%) In close coordination with HHSC Government and Stakeholder Relations, oversees protocol, policies and procedures for analyzing and tracking legislation, developing fiscal notes, coordinating with other IT departments, HHSC divisions and DSHS.

Provides direction and support to IT team members participating in the legislative process.

25%) Provides quality leadership and direction to IT team members across all areas of IT. Hires, manages, and develops staff to ensure IT objectives are met.

Provides direct reports with work assignments, clear direction and information on responsibilities and work performance expectations.

Develops work plans; assesses staff performance; resolves performance problems; recognizes exceptional performance; and conducts performance evaluations at least annually.

Reviews and approves leave and carries out other expected Human Resources activities with direct reports.

10%) Performs other duties as assigned including the overseeing and managing special projects on behalf of the DCIO for Administration and Finance and the CIO.

Knowledge Skills Abilities :

Knowledge of the Texas legislative process.

Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to health and human services and how they apply to the HHS environment.

Knowledge of analyzing proposed legislation and its policy and fiscal impact on HHS and if applicable other divisions and DSHS.

Knowledge of the principles of leadership and how to effectively interact with various leadership styles.

Knowledge of the executive and legislative branches of state government.

Knowledge of communications best practices.

Skill in written and verbal communications.

Skill in supervising staff.

Skill in gathering and analyzing information.

Skill in developing PowerPoint presentations.

Skill in communicating complex information clearly, concisely, and effectively in writing.

Skill in public speaking.

Skill in verbally communicating complex information to a variety of audiences including state officials and legislators.

Skill in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions.

Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups.

Skill in managing multiple projects and competing priorities.

Ability to demonstrate a high level of diplomacy, tact, and discretion.

Ability to effectively direct the work of others.

Ability to manage resources and establish priorities.

Ability to make decisions and solve problems effectively.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of agency staff, legislators and their staffs, and external agencies and organizations.

Ability to clearly articulate facts and ideas.

Ability to negotiate with individuals and groups internally and externally.

Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Ability to think creatively and support creative thinking in others.

Ability to effectively manage and motivate staff.

Ability to review and approve a variety of written documents with attention to detail.