Deputy County Administrator, Community Services

Harris County seeks a mission- and data-driven, service-oriented leader to serve as Deputy County Administrator (DCA), Community Services.

Position Overview:
The Deputy County Administrator (DCA), Community Services is responsible for supporting Harris County Commissioners Court's priorities while working closely with the County Administrator. This role collaboratively manages selected department heads focused primarily on health, literacy, environment, and housing. The DCA also works with Commissioners Court offices, other members of the Office of County Administration (OCA) Executive Team, and other OCA team members to drive key projects forward and design and implement systems that improve Harris County government.

This position will serve as the County Administrator's central executive-level coordination point for work primarily relating to Goal 4 (Improve physical and mental health outcomes across all communities) and Goal 6 (Help residents achieve housing stability) of the Strategic Plan, with some focus on aspects of Goal 3 (Make our economy more inclusive) and Goal 5 (Minimize the impact of climate change and disasters).

Duties and Responsibilities:
- Execution: Works with the County Administrator, selected department heads, and other OCA leadership and staff to support the successful execution of projects and other County efforts.
- Project Management: Works with the County Administrator to prioritize and plan projects and other tasks within OCA, selected departments, and countywide.
- Communication: Writes or edits key documents and presentations for Commissioners Court. Supports OCA's internal and external communications as needed.
- Budget: Works closely with the County Administrator and selected department heads to develop annual budgets in alignment with County priorities.
- Strategy: Supports efforts to implement, oversee, and regularly update the County's Strategic Plan. Drives OCA's work with selected County departments to develop department-specific strategic direction and performance measures.
- Collaboration: Facilitates collaboration between assigned departments and external partners, shared goals, and continuous improvement across County operations.
- Leadership: Ability to lead leaders; set direction; align goals, objectives, and measures; create a cohesive, impactful culture; ensure adequate performance management.
- Engaging Partners: Engaging with communities, local partners, and all levels of government to improve understanding of County programs and obtain input and feedback.
- Accountability: Demonstrates clear communication, accountability, and responsiveness.
- Performance: Supports department head performance evaluations in collaboration with the County Administrator and engenders a culture of continuous improvement.

Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
- At least 10 years of relevant experience.
- Minimum of 7 years in a senior managerial role managing complex administrative functions.

Preferred:
- Master's, professional, or other postgraduate degree in a relevant field.
- 7 years of experience working with or in county government, local/state/federal government, nonprofit, or NGO.
- Multiple years of experience in a large organization.
- Demonstrated experience collaborating with elected officials.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Advanced knowledge of public policy, Texas county government operations, laws, statutes, and best practices.
- Knowledge of change management, project management, team building, budget and finance practices.
- Ability to lead high-performing, multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong customer/client service mindset focused on better serving the people of Harris County.
- High ethical standards and commitment to transparency and accountability.
- Proficient in strategic planning, policy development, and program evaluation.
- Highly skilled in oral and written communication.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management applications.

General Information:
- Position Type: Regular Full-time
- Schedule: Monday - Friday; must be available at all times; works nights and weekends as required; eligible for limited hybrid schedule.
- Salary: Depends on Qualifications
- Department: Office of County Administration
- Reports To: County Administrator

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.