CEO
Middletown, CT

A national search is underway for an exceptional leader to serve as the next Chief Executive Officer of Advanced Behavioral Health (ABH), a $34 million nonprofit organization. Based in Connecticut, ABH occupies a unique and essential space in the state’s behavioral health infrastructure.

More than a traditional administrative services organization (ASO), ABH functions as a hybrid entity - part ASO, part direct provider of care management services, and part resource and support hub for behavioral health service providers. It is best understood as a resource leader, standard bearer, and accountability organization through its certification and oversight work supporting the 1115 Medicaid waiver and other statewide initiatives. ABH partners with state agencies, providers, and communities to strengthen access, coordination, and quality across the behavioral health continuum. (https://www.abhct.com/)

 About Advanced Behavioral Health (ABH):

ABH, a nonprofit leader based in Connecticut, has been a cornerstone in the state’s behavioral health system since its founding in 1995. Established with a mission to advance the recovery, health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities through an array of innovative , high-quality services and solutions, ABH has grown into both a highly respected administrative services organization (ASO) and trusted systems partner supporting some of the most critical behavioral health functions across the state.

ABH has developed deep partnerships with key state agencies, including the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), Department of Children and Families (DCF), and the Department of Social Services (DSS). Through these relationships, ABH provides a range of services including provider network management, care coordination, claims processing, quality assurance, and data-driven system oversight. Its work supports the efficient and accountable delivery of behavioral health services across both adult and youth systems of care.

As behavioral health needs continue to evolve, driven by complex social determinants, workforce shortages, and shifting payment models, ABH has emerged as an anchor organization, helping stabilize and strengthen the provider network. The organization has played a key role in promoting innovative solutions to longstanding system challenges, including the implementation of system-wide innovation and quality improvement, performance-based contracting, and access initiatives.

Today, ABH continues to support thousands of individuals and families across Connecticut by enhancing care coordination, improving outcomes, and advocating for sustainable, community-based behavioral health infrastructure. With a long history of fiscal responsibility and programmatic stewardship, ABH is well-positioned to guide the future of behavioral health in Connecticut through data-informed leadership, collaborative systems work, and a commitment to quality and equity.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ABH, you will have the opportunity to lead a unique and highly respected organization through an important period of reflection, renewal, and forward momentum. ABH is at a natural inflection point, and the organization is seeking a thoughtful, steady leader who can bring people together, strengthen internal alignment, and help shape a clear and purposeful path forward.

Rather than seeking sweeping change, ABH’s priority is to build on its strong foundation by fostering trust, improving communication, and ensuring the organization’s systems and structure are positioned to support its mission long term. The CEO will play a central role in supporting staff, partners, and funders as the organization works to stabilize its workforce, refine its infrastructure, strengthen its financial outlook, and affirm its identity and role within Connecticut’s behavioral health ecosystem.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will lead with clarity and collaboration to support strategic and operational improvements across key areas such as finance, human resources, technology, and program delivery. A key focus will be on aligning ABH’s internal capacity with the evolving needs of the communities it serves and the priorities of state and system partners.

Externally, the CEO will represent ABH with credibility and consistency, helping to nurture strong relationships with state agencies, provider networks, and community-based partners. This work will require the ability to navigate complex dynamics with care and professionalism, bringing patience, perspective, and a commitment to shared goals.

Internally, the CEO will help foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and transparency. By empowering a capable leadership team and engaging staff with intention and humility, the CEO will reinforce ABH’s values and support a strong, cohesive organizational culture, particularly in a rapidly changing healthcare environment.

This is a unique and meaningful opportunity for a leader who is motivated by purpose and partnership. The next CEO will guide ABH through a chapter of thoughtful growth and evolution, helping to ensure the organization continues to be a trusted and effective partner in strengthening behavioral health access and outcomes across Connecticut.

 CANDIDATE PROFILE

​To be successful leading ABH, the “Ideal" candidate should:

• Demonstrate strong integrity and transparency, serving as a trusted leader who models ethical decision-making and accountability both internally and externally.

• Exhibit emotional intelligence and resilience, fostering a healthy workplace culture where collaboration, adaptability, and empathy guide relationships with staff, community partners, and the populations ABH serves.

• Bring a clear, mission-aligned leadership style, with a commitment to person-centered care and a deep understanding of how behavioral health intersects with broader systems of care in Connecticut.

• Navigate with flexibility and strategic clarity, balancing innovation with operational grounding in the face of policy shifts, the need for workforce stability, and payment model transitions.

• Possess extensive experience in behavioral health and community-based systems, including an understanding of Connecticut’s provider landscape, Medicaid and DMHAS funding models, and statewide care coordination infrastructure.

• Have the ability to manage and strengthen public image, proactively addressing reputational risk while articulating the value of ABH’s work to funders, community leaders, and the broader public.

• Bring deep experience in stakeholder engagement, building and maintaining trust with state agencies, funders, local partners, and community coalitions to support the long-term viability of ABH’s programs and services.

• Demonstrate strong business and financial acumen, including experience with government contracts, braided funding streams, and scenario-based budgeting to ensure organizational sustainability.

• Drive diversification of funding, identifying new revenue streams beyond grants - while maintaining alignment with ABH’s mission.

• Prioritize workforce stabilization and retention in an environment where staff feel supported, heard, and connected to the work; and where leadership invests in developing future talent.

• Understand and support the development of infrastructure, ensuring ABH’s HR, finance, IT, and data systems evolve to support strategic goals and service growth.

• Demonstrate value for and understanding of the varied backgrounds, needs, and perspectives of the individuals and communities ABH serves throughout Connecticut, ensuring that leadership and programs reflect the richness and cultural diversity of the state’s population.

• Hold at minimum a master’s degree in a related field to support complex decision-making and system leadership.

• Reside in or be willing to relocate to the Middletown Connecticut area  in order to cultivate strong relationships with the state’s behavioral health network, community stakeholders, and funding agencies.

 LOCATION

Middletown is a historic and vibrant city located in Middlesex County, Connecticut. Near the Connecticut River, Middletown offers a unique blend of small-town charm and cultural sophistication. With a population of just under 50,000, it serves as a regional hub for education, healthcare, and the arts, and is home to Wesleyan University, an internationally recognized liberal arts institution that enriches the city’s cultural and intellectual life.

Middletown’s economy is diverse, anchored by sectors such as healthcare, higher education, advanced manufacturing, and nonprofit services. The city is known for its walkable downtown district, which features a variety of locally owned restaurants, shops, and galleries. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, access to scenic parks and riverfront trails, and year-round arts and music festivals. Its central location offers convenient access to both Hartford and New Haven, making it an ideal place to live for those seeking both connection and balance.

Middletown is also recognized for its commitment to inclusiveness and civic engagement, with a welcoming atmosphere that draws families, professionals, and students alike.  

For more information, visit the City of Middletown, Middletown Downtown Business District, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, and Wesleyan University.