Application Guide

How to Apply for Managing Director, Public Health Services Helplines

at Health Resources in Action, Inc.

🏢 About Health Resources in Action, Inc.

Health Resources in Action (HRiA) is a non-profit public health organization dedicated to advancing health and racial equity through policy, systems change, research, and grantmaking. Working here means contributing to meaningful statewide helplines for substance use and problem gambling, with a strong commitment to equity and community impact.

About This Role

As Managing Director, you will lead a portfolio of statewide helplines across multiple states, overseeing a team of 50+ staff and a $10M+ budget. This role is pivotal in setting strategic vision, ensuring program effectiveness, and fostering a culture of equity and collaboration, directly impacting thousands of individuals seeking support.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a check-in with senior directors to review program metrics and address urgent client needs. Mid-morning, you could meet with a state funder to discuss contract deliverables and explore expansion opportunities. Afternoons often involve strategic planning, budget reviews, and mentoring your leadership team to ensure alignment with equity goals.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Health Resources in Action, Inc. Is Looking For

  • A seasoned leader with 10+ years of progressive management in public health, specifically overseeing programs of similar scope (30+ staff, $8-10M revenue).
  • Expert in securing and managing federal or state contracts, with a track record of successful business development and client engagement.
  • Deeply committed to health and racial equity, with experience integrating equity into program design and team culture.
  • Master's degree in public health or related field (or bachelor's with 8+ years additional experience) and strong supervisory skills for senior directors.

📝 Tips for Applying to Health Resources in Action, Inc.

1

Tailor your resume to highlight leadership of large-scale helplines or similar public health programs, emphasizing budget size and team management.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience with substance use or problem gambling helplines to HRiA's mission and equity values.

3

Quantify your achievements: mention specific contract values, team sizes, and outcomes like improved access or client satisfaction.

4

Research HRiA's current helpline programs (e.g., Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline) and reference them to show genuine interest.

5

Highlight any experience with remote team management, as this role is fully remote and oversees staff across states.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for public health and health equity, aligning with HRiA's mission.", 'Specific examples of managing large, diverse teams and complex budgets in a helpline or similar setting.', 'Proven ability to secure and manage state/federal contracts and develop new business opportunities.', 'Your leadership philosophy and how you foster a cohesive, inclusive team culture remotely.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review HRiA's website, especially their helpline programs for Massachusetts, Illinois, and Vermont.
  • → Read HRiA's annual report or recent publications to understand their equity framework and impact.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the substance use and problem gambling landscape in the states served.
  • → Look up HRiA's Senior Leadership Team to understand the organizational structure and culture.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you managed a program with a budget over $10M and how you ensured financial accountability.
2 How do you integrate health equity into program strategy and daily operations?
3 Share an example of a challenging client or funder relationship and how you maintained partnership.
4 How would you build team cohesion and manage performance across a remote team of 50+ staff?
5 What is your approach to identifying and pursuing new business opportunities for helpline services?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention HRiA's specific helpline programs or equity focus.
  • Failing to provide concrete examples of managing teams of 30+ or budgets of $8M+.
  • Ignoring the remote nature of the role and not addressing how you lead remote teams effectively.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Health Resources in Action, Inc.!

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