HEALTH BRANCH MANAGER

Position Information

Job Summary

The Health Branch Manager is a senior-level leader within the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), responsible for directing the daily operations and long-term strategic planning of a public health branch. This role oversees the development, delivery, and evaluation of statewide public health programs and ensures alignment with ADH’s mission to protect and improve the health and well-being of Arkansans.

Primary Responsibilities

Provide leadership, direction, and oversight for all operations within the assigned public health branch. Develop and implement policies, goals, and strategic initiatives to meet statewide public health objectives. Lead emergency preparedness and response efforts related to the branch’s scope of responsibility. Supervise and support branch staff, including program managers, health professionals, and administrative personnel. Oversee program planning, grant implementation, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance activities. Monitor performance indicators, program outcomes, and health impact metrics to guide data-informed decision-making. Ensure that all services and initiatives meet applicable state and federal guidelines, public health standards, and agency benchmarks. Prepare and manage branch budgets; oversee grant applications, fund allocation, and contract execution.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong vision-setting, team leadership, and organizational management abilities. Proven ability to motivate and guide teams through complex, system-wide initiatives. Capacity to drive change and improvement in a structured, policy-driven environment. In-depth understanding of public health practices, systems, and regulations relevant to the branch’s focus. Ability to interpret and apply scientific data and public health research to operational decisions. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for audiences ranging from staff to legislative and community stakeholders. Strong decision-making and analytical skills, particularly under high-stakes or urgent conditions.

Minimum Qualifications

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.