New Hanover County is seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Health and Human Services Officer to lead the County’s consolidated Health and Human Services agency. Reporting directly to the County Manager and a member of the executive leadership team, this position works closely with the 15-member Human Services Advisory Board and serves as the County’s primary liaison to Trillium Health Resources. The Chief HHS Officer oversees all public health and social services operations, as well as the Senior Resource Center and Veteran Services—collectively serving more than 246,000 residents in one of North Carolina’s most dynamic and rapidly growing counties.
About the Role
The Chief Health and Human Services Officer leads a diverse portfolio of programs spanning community health, clinical and nursing operations, environmental health, social services, economic support programs, and senior resources. The position oversees more than 500 employees and manages an annual budget of approximately $51 million.
This executive role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local mandates while advancing innovative strategies to strengthen community well-being. It requires a unified approach to leadership and operations—including program implementation, fiscal oversight, strategic planning, and intergovernmental relations. Additional responsibilities include advising elected officials and advisory boards, developing and managing budgets, implementing county policies, and cultivating strong partnerships with nonprofits, state agencies, and community stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct the planning, organization, and implementation of public health and human services programs to meet the community’s diverse and evolving needs.
- Lead fiscal and strategic planning efforts, ensuring efficient and effective delivery of services.
- Monitor state and federal legislation to guide short and long-term planning.
- Cultivate relationships with local, regional, and state partners to align goals and maximize resources.
- Oversee program development, performance measurement, and compliance with applicable regulations.
- Supervise senior managers and department directors, fostering professional growth, collaboration, accountability, and innovation.
- Promote data-driven decision making and continuous improvement across all service areas.
- Represent the department to community organizations, the media, and the public.
The successful candidate will be a strategic, results-oriented leader with a proven record of success in managing complex, multi-disciplinary human services organizations. They will bring exceptional knowledge about human services policies and practices, a deep understanding of integrated human services delivery systems, and community health practices, and proven success demonstrating skill in leadership, collaboration, and communication, along with the ability to translate data and research into actionable strategies that improve outcomes for individuals and families.
Must demonstrate competency to successfully maintain relationships with diverse groups of people and understand the diversity of needs and complexities inherent in the delivery of services within the local community. This candidate will be hands-on in operations, an expert in program management, involved with team building approaches, and able to identify and incorporate best practices in support of innovation and efficiencies.
Work Hours and Availability
Hours are 8:00AM-5:00PM weekdays. Must be available for evening meetings, special events, and during emergency situations.
About New Hanover County
At fewer than 200 square miles, New Hanover County is the second smallest of North Carolina’s 100 counties—but one of the most densely populated and vibrant. Home to over 246,000 residents and the coastal city of Wilmington, the county is known for its strong economy, natural beauty, and high quality of life. The County operates under a Board of Commissioners–County Manager form of government and is guided by shared values of Professionalism, Integrity, Innovation, Stewardship, Accountability, and Equity.
New Hanover County is committed to progressive public policy, superior service, and sound fiscal management that meet the needs of its citizens today and into the future.
Master’s Degree in a health and human services field, public administration, or a related field, and seven (7) years of progressively responsible human services experience that includes three (3) years of management level experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must have valid NC Driver’s License, good driving record, and own transportation.
Residency in New Hanover County may be required within six months of employment to ensure accessibility and active engagement within the community.
Valid NC Driver's License
CompensationThe current salary range for this position is $117,149 - $199,154 + a competitive benefits package. Salary is negotiable, depending on qualifications. Application Information
This position is open until filled; however,
priority consideration will be given to applications received through Friday, January 2, 2026. After the priority consideration date, applications will be reviewed as they are received.
