Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

Location: The Whole Person – Kansas City, Missouri
Department: Administration
Reports To: Board of Directors, In-House Legal Counsel
Status: Full-Time, Exempt

 

Position Summary:

The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of The Whole Person provides strategic and operational leadership across all departments. This executive role ensures services are delivered in alignment with the organization’s mission of empowering people with disabilities to live independently. The CAO is responsible for regulatory compliance, fiscal oversight, organizational culture, and community partnerships. This leader works in close coordination with the Board of Directors, Executive Leadership Committee, and Legal Counsel to ensure sustainability, compliance, and mission effectiveness.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide overall executive leadership to operations, programs, and services.
• Ensure services meet all federal, state, and local compliance requirements.
• Lead budgeting, financial planning, and audits in coordination with the finance team.
• Supervise and support department directors and senior leadership.
• Develop and implement strategic plans in alignment with the mission and community needs.
• Represent the organization to external stakeholders, including funders, state agencies, and partners.
• Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
• Serve as liaison to the Board of Directors, preparing updates, reports, and strategic initiatives.
• Ensure quality improvement, client satisfaction, and staff development processes are in place.
• Coordinate with Legal Counsel to interpret regulations, manage contracts, and ensure organizational activities remain compliant with local, state, and federal laws.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Directly supervises the organization’s senior leadership and department heads.
Indirect oversight of all agency personnel.
 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Health, Healthcare Administration, or related field).
• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience in healthcare, disability services, or nonprofit management.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, financial oversight, and program leadership.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Understanding of independent living philosophy and person-centered care.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree
• Experience with HCBS, CDS, Medicaid waiver programs, or home health services in Missouri.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance, grant compliance, and federal/state reporting.

 
Core Competencies:
 

1. Strategic Leadership
   • Ability to develop and implement long-term organizational strategies.
   • Visionary thinking aligned with mission-driven goals.
2. Operational Oversight
   • Expertise in managing day-to-day operations across multiple departments.
   • Strong decision-making and prioritization skills.
3. Regulatory and Legal Compliance
   • Deep understanding of federal, state, and local regulations, especially in healthcare and disability services.
   • Ability to interpret and apply legal guidance in collaboration with legal counsel.
4. Financial Acumen
   • Proficiency in budgeting, financial planning, and audit oversight.
   • Ability to analyze financial data and ensure fiscal responsibility.
5. People and Culture Leadership
   • Strong supervisory skills with a focus on staff development and performance management.
   • Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and empowering workplace culture.
6. Communication and Interpersonal Skills
   • Excellent written and verbal communication for internal and external stakeholders.
   • Ability to build trust and maintain relationships with the Board, staff, funders, and community partners.
7. Program and Service Delivery
   • Knowledge of program development, evaluation, and quality improvement.
   • Experience in client-centered service models, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
8. Governance and Board Relations
   • Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors.
   • Ability to prepare and present strategic updates and reports.
9. Community and Stakeholder Engagement
   • Skilled in representing the organization publicly and building partnerships.
   • Advocacy for disability rights and independent living principles.
10. Change Management
    • Ability to lead through organizational change and growth.

Work Environment and Physical Demands
This position involves a combination of office-based work and occasional travel to meet with employees, attend meetings, and support organizational initiatives. The role requires the ability to work in a dynamic environment that may occasionally involve interacting with unpredictable situations. Candidates should be comfortable working independently, managing multiple priorities, and adapting to changing circumstances. Reliable transportation and the ability to travel locally are essential.
EEO/Diversity Statement
The Whole Person is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for all employees. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status. We strongly encourage individuals with disabilities to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be made upon request. Our commitment to diversity and accessibility enhances our ability to serve our clients and communities effectively.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit the following to dhartsfield@thewholeperson.org:

• A cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications
• A current resume

Application Deadline: June 26, 2025
Posted: June 12, 2025