Vice President of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)
Akin is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as Vice President of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI). This leadership role is responsible for driving organizational excellence through the development, implementation, and oversight of quality improvement initiatives across all service lines.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Strategic Leadership & Planning
Lead the design and execution of a comprehensive CQI strategy aligned with Akin’s mission and strategic goals.
Develop and oversee CQI workgroups, including performance to ensure high standards of care and operational efficiency.
Collaborate with executive leadership, program directors, to embed CQI into daily practice.
Provide leadership and mentorship to CQI staff and cross-functional teams.
Promote a culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous learning.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
Ensure compliance with CARF accreditation standards and lead preparation and response efforts for CARF surveys and audits.
Monitor fidelity to evidence-based and promising practices across programs.
Strengthen CQI skills in program teams with training, coaching, and technical support.
Support staff in applying CQI methods (e.g., PDSA cycles, root cause analysis, workflow mapping).
Oversee critical incident reporting, case record reviews, and root cause analyses to promote safety and risk reduction.
Analyze trends and performance data to inform decision‑making and drive organizational change.
Translate data into actionable insights for program improvement and learning opportunities for program teams, leadership, and the Board.
Collaborate with compliance, risk management, and evaluation partners to ensure aligned practices.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Deep knowledge of CQI, performance measurement, and accreditation standards (CARF, COA, JCAHO).
Skilled in data governance, program evaluation, and using analytics to drive improvement.
Proven leader with strong communication, facilitation, and change‑management skills.
Experienced in compliance oversight and cross‑departmental project management.
Adept at translating complex data into clear insights for leadership and boards.
High integrity, strategic thinker, and collaborative problem‑solver.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
This job is performed in a professional office environment. The following list is representative of the work environment employees encounter while performing the essential functions of this job:
Moderate noise (i.e., business office with computers, printers, phones)
Typical office lighting and temperatures
Moderate interruptions
Ability to work in a confined area
Ability to sit at a computer for an extended period
Limited travel to other site locations within the state
HYBRID WORK ARRANGEMENTS:
Hybrid work is a benefit of Akin’s flexible workplace but cannot be offered for all positions. Some positions require daily presence in the office. Hybrid work arrangements may be adjusted or rescinded based upon business needs.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Social Work, Public Health, Healthcare Administration or related field strongly preferred.
Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in quality improvement, with at least 5 years in a senior management role. Prefer experience with behavioral health, early childhood education, and family services.
Demonstrated expertise in CARF standards and accreditation processes.
Proven ability to lead organizational change and quality transformation initiatives.
Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Experience with data systems, dashboards, and performance management tools.
Exceptional analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
In addition to a competitive base salary of $130,000 to $170,000, Akin also provides a comprehensive benefits package which includes access to robust health, vision, and dental insurance; 401(k) with up to 3% employer contribution; Employee Assistance Plans (EAP); Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA); Health Savings Account (HSA); Voluntary Long‑Term Care Plan; Voluntary Life & Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance; short‑term disability insurance; Critical Illness, Hospital, and Accident Insurance; Financial Wellness & Identity Protection; Voluntary Long‑Term Care; and 14 days of vacation accrued in the first year, 12 days of sick pay accrued per year, 2 Employee Appreciation days, as well as 14 observed paid annual holidays per year.