Director of Center Operations (PACE Program)

Position Overview

The Director of Center Operations (DCO) is responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of a regional PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) center and associated alternative care sites. This role ensures optimal access to services, high-quality care delivery, operational efficiency, and an exceptional participant experience.

The DCO serves as a key liaison between center operations, support services, and executive leadership while overseeing multiple interdisciplinary teams (IDTs) and ensuring alignment with organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and the PACE care model.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee daily operations across the PACE center and associated care sites.
• Provide direct supervision to managers across clinic/day center, transportation, home care, therapies, nutrition, nursing support, quality, and behavioral health services.
• Ensure effective coordination and equitable distribution of resources across multiple interdisciplinary teams.
• Act as the lead operational executive for assigned center(s) and services.
• Serve as a liaison between operational teams, support services, and senior leadership.

Strategic & Financial Management

• Partner with senior leadership to develop, monitor, and manage budgets.
• Analyze financial and operational data to improve efficiency, quality, and cost performance.
• Drive initiatives that support access, growth, and sustainability objectives.
• Promote a culture of transparency through data sharing, dashboards, and performance reporting.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulatory requirements, including CMS guidelines.
• Support quality assurance, patient safety, infection control, and risk management programs.
• Monitor care delivery and operational practices to ensure high standards of service and participant outcomes.
• Identify and address operational or care delivery issues proactively.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop multidisciplinary teams and managers.
• Establish clear expectations, foster accountability, and promote a high-performance culture.
• Support staff training, competency development, and ongoing professional growth.
• Step in as interim leadership for operational areas when needed.

Collaboration & Program Development

• Collaborate with clinical and operational leadership to design, implement, and evaluate services.
• Support integration of services across care settings to enhance participant outcomes.
• Utilize data and feedback to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Additional Responsibilities

• Travel between multiple sites as required.
• Support participant-centered care by recognizing and reporting changes in condition.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Licensure

• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.
• Active, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (American Heart Association or equivalent).

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience supervising licensed staff in a healthcare setting.
• Clinical experience within the past 5 years in a home health agency, primary care clinic, or healthcare facility.
• One of the following:
  • Master’s degree (preferred), or
  • Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in nursing or a related field with at least 3 years of relevant experience, or
  • At least 4 years of relevant nursing experience.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and electronic health records systems.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive improvements.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships across clinical and operational teams.
• Ability to work independently with sound judgment and discretion.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel between sites.
• Ability to meet role-specific competency requirements prior to independent practice.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in a healthcare environment with potential exposure to biohazards and infectious materials.
• May involve standing, walking, bending, lifting (up to 30 lbs with assistance), and other physical activity.
• Requires clear communication, manual dexterity, and visual acuity for administrative and clinical tasks.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package may include:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Wellness programs and employee perks