What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director position at Ascension Recover Services?
Executive Director – Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health
JOIN OUR JOURNEY & HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TREATMENT
Relocation Package Available
Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health, in partnership with Ascension Recovery Services (ARS), is building something extraordinary in Pawnee, Oklahoma—and we're looking for a visionary Executive Director to lead this next chapter. If you're driven by purpose, energized by building programs from the ground up, and committed to transforming lives, this is your opportunity.
ABOUT US
Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health is a comprehensive behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment program offering inpatient and outpatient services. Our work is rooted in cultural respect, evidence-based care, and a commitment to improving health outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.
OUR VISION
To provide compassionate, culturally informed care; eliminate barriers to treatment; and empower individuals on their recovery journey through integrated, person-centered services.
WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS
You'll Lead Something Truly Meaningful
Foundational Leadership: Build programs, shape culture, and design operational excellence from day one.
Purpose-Driven Mission: Your leadership directly impacts lives—you are not just managing operations; you're shaping hope.
Innovation-Friendly Environment: We welcome new ideas, fresh approaches, and leaders who think boldly.
Collaborative Team Culture: You'll partner with people who deeply care about recovery, community, and quality care.
Competitive Compensation: Strong salary, performance-based incentives, comprehensive benefits, and relocation support.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
Leadership & Team Development
Build and lead a high-performing, collaborative team.
Provide oversight, coaching, and professional development for all clinical and operational staff.
Drive a positive, inclusive, and mission-aligned work environment.
Lead recruitment, onboarding, retention strategies, and performance evaluations.
Operational Oversight
Oversee day-to-day operations, infrastructure, safety, and program delivery.
Implement policies, procedures, and contract requirements and ensure alignment with Tribal, state, federal, and Joint Commission standards.
Ensure accurate, compliant clinical and administrative documentation.
Program Development
Build and continuously improve treatment programs, ensuring clinical excellence and individualized, culturally competent care.
Manage budgets, staffing models, scheduling, and resource allocation.
Collaborate with clinical leadership on evidence-based programming and outcome measures.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
Ensure compliance with all licensing, regulatory, ethical, and cultural standards.
Lead incident investigations, corrective action plans, and regulatory reporting.
Drive quality improvement initiatives to enhance client outcomes and employee experience.
Uphold client rights and trauma-informed practices.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
Represent the facility at community events, Tribal gatherings, and professional forums.
Develop strong relationships with Tribal leadership, community agencies, and referral partners.
Partner with ARS Business Development on growth and referral strategies.
Strategic Vision & Advocacy
Drive long-term strategy to expand services, strengthen partnerships, and increase access to care.
Advocate for recovery, reduce stigma, and promote culturally informed behavioral health services.
Partner with the Board of Directors and key Tribal leaders to align goals and strategic direction.
WHO YOU ARE
Experienced leader with 5 years in human services, behavioral health, Tribal health, or healthcare leadership.
Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
Strong understanding of behavioral health treatment models, SUD services, or integrated care.
Experience working with Tribal governments or Native-serving organizations is a significant plus.
Skilled in organizational leadership, staff development, budgeting, and strategic planning.
Strong communicator with excellent public speaking, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills.
Able to obtain First Aid/CPR within 30 days of hire.
Mission-driven, culturally aware, and passionate about recovery support.
PHYSICAL & WORK ENVIRONMENT EXPECTATIONS
Primarily office-based with regular interaction with clients, staff, and community partners.
Evening and weekend work may be required to meet operational needs.
Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs; ability to walk, stand, climb stairs, and engage in a dynamic facility environment.
Travel may be required for training, meetings, and community engagement.
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Pawnee Nation Behavioral Health is deeply committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and culturally respectful workforce.
Native American/Tribal Preference applies.
We also strongly encourage veterans and qualified candidates from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.
We value the unique perspectives each team member brings and are dedicated to ensuring a workplace where every individual feels welcomed, supported, and empowered.