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State of Colorado · 6 days ago

Colorado Child Protection Ombudsman (Chief Executive Officer).

Denver, CO

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

7+ years exp

The State of Colorado is seeking a Child Protection Ombudsman to lead the Office of the Colorado Child Protection Ombudsman, an independent state office focused on overseeing the child protection system. The Ombudsman will have executive responsibility for setting strategic direction, leading a skilled team, and engaging with various stakeholders to ensure accountability and fairness in child protection services.

AssociationHealth CareNon Profit

Responsibilities

Setting strategic direction and ensuring fulfillment of the office’s statutory mission

Leading and supporting senior leadership, including the Deputy Ombudsman and Director of Client Services

Overseeing complaint investigation, system evaluation, and public reporting processes

Serving as the primary spokesperson for the office

Engaging credibly with legislators, judicial leaders, agency executives, media, and the public

Fostering an inclusive, mission-driven culture that supports staff working in emotionally complex environments

Qualification

Executive leadership experienceOmbudsman principles knowledgeChild-serving systems understandingPublic administration degreePolicy analysis skillsEquityCuriosityIndependenceIntegrityCollaboration

Required

An advanced graduate degree or equivalent professional experience in public administration, nonprofit or government leadership, social work, public policy, behavioral sciences, or a related field

Deep working knowledge of ombudsman principles or comparable independent oversight functions, including neutrality, confidentiality, due process, and ethical judgment

Demonstrated understanding of child-serving systems such as child welfare, behavioral health, juvenile justice, and their intersection with law and courts

A proven record of leading system-level change that produced measurable improvements in outcomes, processes, or organizational culture

At least seven years of executive-level leadership with direct accountability for strategy, budgets, operations, and workforce leadership or experience commensurate with this requirement

The ability to analyze legislation and policy and communicate complex findings clearly to diverse audiences

A documented commitment to equity, fairness, and public accountability

A reputation for integrity, discretion, and sound judgment