VP Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Operations – Los Angeles, CA

Role Overview for VP Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Operations – Los Angeles, CA

JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, mission-driven healthcare organization in its search for a transformative Vice President of Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Operations. Based in the vibrant and diverse landscape of Los Angeles, California, this executive leadership role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of mental healthcare for one of the region’s most respected providers. Our client is a multi-site, integrated health system committed to delivering compassionate, accessible, and high-quality care to all communities.

The Vice President of Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Operations will serve as the senior executive leader responsible for the strategic vision, operational excellence, clinical quality, and financial performance of the entire Behavioral Health service line. This comprehensive portfolio includes a wide array of services, such as inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient clinics, crisis stabilization services, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), substance use disorder treatment, and integrated care models within primary care settings. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a profound understanding of the complexities of the modern healthcare environment and a deep-seated passion for improving mental health outcomes. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and expanding access to critical services for a diverse patient population. This role requires a dynamic individual who can balance strategic planning with hands-on operational management, inspire a large and multidisciplinary team, and build robust partnerships within the community to create a seamless continuum of care.

Key Responsibilities of VP Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Operations – Los Angeles, CA

Strategic Leadership and Program Development

• Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-range strategic plan for the Behavioral Health service line that aligns with the organization’s overall mission and growth objectives.
• Identify, evaluate, and champion new program development opportunities, service line expansions, and innovative care delivery models to meet evolving community needs.
• Lead initiatives to fully integrate behavioral health services across the health system, collaborating with leaders in primary care, emergency services, and specialty medicine to promote a holistic, patient-centered approach.
• Stay abreast of national and local trends, policy changes, and technological advancements in behavioral healthcare to ensure the organization remains a leader in the field.

Operational Excellence and Performance Improvement

• Provide executive oversight for all day-to-day operations across multiple sites, ensuring efficiency, quality, safety, and an exceptional patient experience.
• Establish, monitor, and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to clinical outcomes, patient access, operational efficiency, and financial performance. Implement data-driven strategies for continuous improvement.
• Optimize workflows, staffing models, and resource allocation to enhance productivity and ensure the delivery of timely and effective care.
• Champion the selection and implementation of technology solutions, including telehealth platforms and EHR enhancements, to improve care coordination and patient engagement.

Clinical Quality, Safety, and Compliance

• Uphold the highest standards of clinical care and patient safety across all programs, fostering a culture of accountability and clinical excellence.
• Ensure all behavioral health services are in full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as accreditation standards from bodies such as The Joint Commission and CARF.
• Oversee the development and implementation of clinical policies, procedures, and protocols that are grounded in best practices. Champion the adoption of evidence-based practices for mental health and substance use disorders.
• Lead quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) activities, including incident reporting, root cause analysis, and the implementation of corrective action plans.

Financial Management and Business Acumen

• Assume full P&L responsibility for the Behavioral Health service line, including the development and management of annual operating and capital budgets.
• Analyze financial data, variance reports, and productivity metrics to ensure fiscal responsibility and the achievement of financial targets.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for revenue growth, cost containment, and contract negotiation with payors, including managed care organizations and government entities.
• Collaborate with the revenue cycle team to optimize billing and collections processes for behavioral health services.

Team Leadership and Workforce Development

• Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing, engaged leadership team, providing clear direction, support, and opportunities for professional growth.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment that attracts and retains top clinical and administrative talent.
• Promote a culture of respect, compassion, and continuous learning that prioritizes the well-being of both patients and staff.
• Develop and implement strategies for workforce planning and development to meet the current and future needs of the service line.

Requirements for the VP Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Operations – Los Angeles, CA

Education & Licensure

• Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration (MHA), Business Administration (MBA), Public Health (MPH), Social Work (MSW), Psychology, or a related field is required.
• A doctoral degree (e.g., PhD, PsyD, DSW, MD/DO) is highly preferred.
• Current clinical licensure in the state of California (e.g., LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, Licensed Psychologist) is a significant asset.

Experience

• A minimum of ten (10) years of progressive leadership experience within a complex behavioral health setting, such as a large hospital system, academic medical center, or multi-site community mental health organization.
• At least five (5) to seven (7) years of experience in a senior executive role (e.g., Director, Senior Director, or Vice President) with significant operational, financial, and strategic responsibilities.
• Demonstrated success in managing a large, diverse team and overseeing multiple programs and service locations.
• Proven track record of driving strategic growth, improving operational efficiency, and achieving strong financial results.
• Extensive experience with regulatory compliance, accreditation processes, and quality improvement methodologies in a behavioral health context.

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Deep knowledge of the California behavioral health landscape, including county mental health systems, Medi-Cal, managed care, and relevant legislation.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget development, P&L management, and healthcare finance.
• Outstanding leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• A collaborative and relationship-oriented approach to leadership, with a commitment to building strong partnerships both internally and externally.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes:

• Executive Compensation: A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience, coupled with a significant annual performance-based bonus potential.
• Comprehensive Health & Wellness: A robust benefits package including low-deductible medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents. Includes access to wellness programs, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and mental health resources.
• Retirement Savings: A generous 401(k) or 403(b) retirement plan with a substantial employer match to help you plan for your future.
• Generous Paid Time Off: A comprehensive PTO package that includes vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to support a healthy work-life balance.
• Professional Development: Significant investment in your growth, with an annual allowance for continuing education, professional conferences, certifications, and leadership development programs.
• Relocation Assistance: A comprehensive relocation package is available for highly qualified candidates moving to the Los Angeles area.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage.

How to Apply

This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary and results-oriented behavioral health executive ready to make a significant impact on mental healthcare in Los Angeles, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role.

JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment, and we specialize in connecting top-tier talent with transformative opportunities. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit our Best Psychiatry Recruiters practice area. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this pivotal role with you. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.