Associate Director, Policy and Outreach - School of Social Work

Job Details

Associate Director, Policy and Outreach - School of Social Work

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Associate Director, Policy and Outreach - School of Social Work at its Detroit campus location.

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.

Essential functions (job duties):

The Associate Director, Policy and Outreach promotes the development of policies, regulations, and practices to enhance prevention, deflection, and diversion opportunities across the state as part of a team at the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice (CBHJ). The Director will work in collaboration with the Michigan governmental (state/local) administration and key regional and national partners. The position reports to the Director of the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, under the Dean of Social Work.

Coordinate with CBHJ team members and external partners on developing and supporting policy initiatives and efforts. Facilitate collaboration and coalition-building strategies with new and current partners, including identifying, scheduling, and attending meetings. Partners include MI Mental Health Diversion Council (MHDC), Michigan Health & Human Services (MDHHS) Crisis Services, 911 State Council, pilot sites, regional and national partners and others as required to build success. Develop and staff an advisory board.

Analyze existing regulations, policies, and legislation to identify areas of improvement or revision in an effort to meet project goals (e.g., funding, training, implementation). Evaluate the potential impacts of proposed policies, including economic, social, regulatory, and geographic effects, using quantitative and qualitative methods.

Facilitate public consultation processes to gather feedback on policy proposals from affected employees, communities, and the public.

Participate in exercises such as cost benefit analysis, review of administrative data sets, and collection of data to inform policy decisions. Monitor policy changes and the implementation of adopted policies to assess their effectiveness and ensure compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements.

Present policy recommendations and findings to decision-makers, including senior government officials and legislative bodies, through reports, presentations, and briefings.

Write press releases, blog posts, and policy updates. Support and communicate public engagement programs and develop engaging outreach collateral for both Legislative and community meetings and events.

Research and apply for grants or other funding opportunities to support policy development and implementation projects.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education Master's degree

Masters in Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, or Social Work from an accredited college or university. PhD preferred.

Experience Specialist (minimum 5 years of job-related experience)

Experience crafting, evaluating, and advocating for policies at the local or state government level. Supervisory experience required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of relevant public policy as well as policy processes associated with the development or modification of existing policy, political, and regulatory actors.

Strong policy development, analysis, and public administration.

Communication Skills: Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to explain complex information clearly and concisely.

Ability to interact professionally with individuals of diverse backgrounds and political orientations.

Knowledge of state-level government affairs and processes.

Familiarity with Michigan’s State Legislature, preferably around Medicaid and 911 policies and programs, and local government (e.g., county).

Technology: Utilizes digital communication tools proficiently. Deliver compelling messages across various online platforms, engaging a broad audience.

Analyzing trends and translating complex data into actionable insights is vital. Clear and concise reporting of these findings to keep stakeholders informed to enable data-driven decisions.