Anyone who wants to become a community health director will need the right skills and education. Many of these employers do not have strict job application standards, so a bachelor’s degree in a related field is usually sufficient. This is because there is always a need for qualified and experienced leaders to help with many underfunded and understaffed community programs and organizations. Regardless of the degree, college students should be sure to take classes in finance, psychology, business writing, management and organizational dynamics.
General Job Duties
A director of community health will lead the development of community programs through strategic planning with organizational partners and program funders. They usually oversee the implementation of new community improvement initiatives. They conduct regular planning sessions to build a cooperative culture with key partners, businesses and government agencies. A director of community health will ensure that the organization’s strategic plan seeks to identify opportunities for closing gaps, reaching standards, soliciting funds and helping the public. Those who work for national organizations may work with executives to develop and oversee local and state-wide revenue, marketing and recruitment activities. They may be asked to evaluate the effectiveness and accountability of individual initiatives and partner programs.
Sample Job Duties
A director of a community health county program may work for a public health service organization. They will be responsible to prepare budgets, manage strategies, coordinate services and prepare reports. They often are asked to build networks of volunteers who drive meaningful engagement, create cultures collaboration and drive community priorities. Directors of community health strive to provide the greatest ROI within the confines of limited manpower, resources and funding. They may cooperate with local, state, regional and national programs and commitments. Their management duties include coaching, counseling and guiding staff and volunteers. Directors of community health may interview, screen, hire and train new staff and volunteers. They enforce performance standards, champion worthy activities and oversee public relations activities.
Job Qualifications
Most employers will accept any bachelor’s degree in a field related to business, such as management, accounting, marketing, public relations and human resources. The candidate’s degree may also be related to the non-profit sector. For example, a job candidate with a nursing background or a degree in health care administration would be a good fit for a community health leadership position. Employers want candidates who have documented experience interfacing with the public, dealing with government relations and soliciting funding and sponsorships. Job candidates should possess the ability to interact across acculturation levels, socio-economic groups and ethnic backgrounds. They must have experience in recruiting, mobilizing, managing and evaluating volunteers. Candidates should have strategic thinking skills in assessing the local markets, environments and available resources, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They should know how to successfully launch new programs and implement reviews and updates for existing programs.
Related Resource: What Careers are in Health Community Design?
Anyone who wants to become a director of community health can build up experience volunteering for regionally and nationally recognized programs. They should be self-motivated and highly effective professionals with strong analytical and organization skills.