Cleveland County is seeking a collaborative leader to serve as its next Public Health Director who will guide a dynamic health department that delivers essential services and safeguards the well-being of the community. This leader will bring together strategy, operations, and community impact, establishing public health priorities in line with North Carolina requirements while building a culture that values innovation, accountability, and excellent service.
The Public Health Director will serve as a trusted advisor to county leadership and the governing Board, while fostering strong partnerships across local, regional, and state stakeholders.
To view the full position profile, please visit Cleveland County Public Health Director Profile
Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Develop and recommend agency policies and long-term strategies to the governing Board, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards and community needs
- Evaluate and continuously improve public health programs in collaboration with clinical, technical, and administrative staff
- Serve as the department’s primary representative with local, regional, and state partners, strengthening collaboration and visibility
Operational & Financial Management
- Provide oversight of all departmental operations, including fiscal management, personnel, and administrative functions
- Develop and manage the annual budget, ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources
- Identify organizational challenges and implement effective processes, controls, and solutions to enhance performance
People Leadership & Organizational Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of public health professionals across all programs
- Oversee recruitment, performance management, workforce planning, and staff development initiatives
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Community Engagement & Public Health Advocacy
- Partner with community leaders and organizations to advance public health initiatives and improve population health outcomes
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders, including the public, elected officials, and partner agencies
- Champion programs that promote prevention, health equity, and community resilience
The ideal candidate is a strategic, mission-driven public health leader with a strong foundation in program oversight and community engagement. They bring a track record of leading complex organizations and implementing innovative solutions that improve health outcomes.
Key attributes include:
- Demonstrated integrity, transparency, and commitment to public service
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire teams and build trust across stakeholders
- Deep understanding of public health systems, including clinical services, communicable disease control, and emergency preparedness
- Expertise in organizational management, including budgeting, staffing, and program evaluation
- Ability to collaborate effectively with policymakers, community partners, and interdisciplinary teams
Candidates must meet one of the following requirements:
- Medical Doctorate; or
- Master’s degree in Public Health Administration with at least one year of relevant experience; or
- Master’s degree in a public health discipline with at least three years of experience; or
- Master’s degree in Public Administration with at least two years of experience in health services; or
- Master’s degree in a related field with at least three years of experience; or
- Bachelor’s degree in a public health-related field with at least seven years of experience, including supervisory experience
- Comprehensive knowledge of public health laws and regulations, and local ordinances
- Comprehensive knowledge of the theory, principles, and practices of general and preventive medicine
- Comprehensive knowledge of organization, staffing, directing, budgeting, and evaluating program operations
- Ability to professionally collaborate with policy makers, associates, direct departments, and the public
- Ability to problem solve within the scope of responsibility and establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public and other agencies.
COMPENSATION
The salary range at the time of hire is expected to be between $115,000 – $150,000. The salary offered will be commensurate with experience. Employees also receive comprehensive benefits to complement the salary provided to staff.
TO APPLY
The position will remain open until filled, with priority given to candidates who apply prior to June 15th. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis by the FGP team.
