SORM | Chief of Strategic Programs | 26-0355

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The State Office of Risk Management serves Texas by partnering with state agencies to protect their employees, programs, and operations. Through a strong commitment to customer service, we administer workers’ compensation, insurance, and risk management programs to manage risk efficiently and responsibly.

The Chief of Strategic Programs directs and oversees the workers’ compensation, insurance, and risk management programs. Serves as a member of the agency’s executive leadership team and advises the Executive Director on strategic planning, policy development, program performance, and organizational initiatives.

This position evaluates agency programs, conducts performance measurements, oversees budget development, and leads the implementation of strategic initiatives. Reviews and analyzes statutes, rules, legislative materials, and industry trends to develop recommendations that improve agency operations and outcomes. Plans, assigns, and supervises the work of staff while exercising extensive independent judgment and discretion.

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS

• Directs, plans, and oversees all activities of the Strategic Programs Division.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the Executive Director.
• Develop and implement evaluation methods to assess program effectiveness.
• Oversee policy development and ensure alignment with agency objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze legislative, regulatory, and industry changes and recommend strategic improvements.
• Plan, assign, and supervise the work of division staff.
• Review, approve, and manage division budgets.
• Performs related work as assigned
• Maintains relevant knowledge necessary to perform essential job functions
• Attends work regularly in compliance with agreed-upon work schedule
• Ensures security and confidentiality of sensitive and/or protected information
• Complies with all agency policies and procedures, including those pertaining to ethics and integrity

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Graduation from high school or equivalent
• Experience: Five years of supervisory or management experience
• Advanced knowledge of the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act, provider networks, and related regulations.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks, prioritizing, and meeting deadlines
• Strong analytical, communication, judgment, and decision-making skills
• Ability to receive and respond positively to constructive feedback and to work cooperatively with others in a professional environment. 
• Ability to arrange for personal transportation for business-related travel
• Ability to work more than 40 hours as needed and in compliance with the FLSA
• Ability to lift and relocate 30 lbs.
• Ability to travel (including overnight travel) up to 10% 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four- year college or university with a major in public administration, risk management, or a closely related field
• Five years of experience with workers’ compensation claims administration or risk management experience
• Experience with Insurance, Contract, Ethics, Compliance, Audit, Policy, and/or other related fields
• Experience working for a Texas state agency
• Experience in medical cost containment
• Experience with state budgeting
• Certifications: Insurance, Risk Management, or other related professional certification (s)
   

TO APPLY  
All applications for employment with the State Office of Risk Management must be submitted electronically through www.WorkInTexas.com. A State of Texas application in WorkInTexas (WIT) must be completed to be considered OR Submit a State of Texas Application for Employment to: Attn: Elaina Middleton, State Office of Risk Management, P.O. Box 13777, Austin, TX 78711-3777. Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_ProgramManagement.pdf

THE SORM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER