Director of Residential Services

Job Title: Director of Residential Services
Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
Reports To: President and CEO

Salary Range $90-110K based on work experience
Full-Time, Hybrid work schedule available - must live within the current VIA service area 

Position Overview

The Director of Residential Services is a senior leadership role charged with spearheading the strategic growth, operational excellence, and innovation of VIA’s residential and sponsored residential programs serving adults with autism and related neurodevelopmental disabilities. This visionary leader will direct the expansion of existing sponsored residential homes and develop a diverse array of residential solutions—including supported living arrangements, group homes, and potentially a purpose-built residential community—that prioritize autonomy, inclusion, person-centered care, and quality of life.

The Director will ensure that all residential programs comply with applicable state and federal regulations, maintain fiscal responsibility, and reflect the highest standards of ethical and person-centered practices. This is a unique opportunity to build a transformative continuum of care from the ground up by collaborating closely with families, staff, community partners, and other stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Program Expansion and Oversight

• Lead the management and continuous improvement of VIA’s current sponsored residential services, ensuring exceptional care quality, regulatory compliance, and adherence to fiscal and operational goals
• Strategically expand residential offerings to increase capacity and diversify living options, fostering inclusive, community-integrated environments
  

New Residential Program Development

• Conceptualize, design, and implement innovative residential service models—including supported living and group homes—guided by best practices and individualized support needs
• Develop and maintain comprehensive policies, compliance procedures, staffing models, and budgets aligned with program objectives and regulatory requirements

Vision and Strategic Planning

• Articulate and drive a long-term vision for residential services that anticipates and responds to evolving community needs and advances in neurodevelopmental care
• Engage and collaborate with families, staff, board members, and external partners to define and align strategic priorities
  

Project Leadership

• Oversee all phases of residential program development, including planning, licensing, facility design, and implementation
• Ensure projects meet timelines, budgets, quality standards, and all applicable licensing and regulatory frameworks
  

Community Engagement and Advocacy

• Build and sustain strong partnerships with government agencies, providers, advocacy organizations, and community stakeholders to enhance service capacity and visibility
• Collaborate with VIA’s advancement team to identify and secure funding streams, grants, and partnerships that support program growth and sustainability
• Represent VIA at public forums, industry events, and advocacy efforts to promote inclusive housing and support services for individuals with disabilities

The Candidate

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred  
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive supervisory experience within developmental disability or autism services, including at least 5 years in residential service delivery
• Prior management experience with sponsored residential services in Virginia is strongly preferred  
• In-depth knowledge of Medicaid Waiver services, Virginia licensing standards, and regulatory compliance
• Proven track record in launching or expanding residential programs, demonstrating strong project management, operational execution, and problem-solving skills

Competencies and Characteristics

• Exceptional leadership capabilities, with strong interpersonal and communication skills that foster collaboration, influence, and relationship-building across multiple sectors
• Deep commitment to evidence-based, person-centered practices and fostering inclusive, empowering environments for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities  
• Expertise in financial stewardship, budgeting, and resource management within a regulatory and nonprofit context.   
• Strategic thinker with experience leading change initiatives, innovation, and organizational growth
• Skilled in crisis management, staff development, and promoting workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion