What We Do
Founded in 1977 by Jeanne McAlister, a pioneer in the field of recovery, McAlister Institute has become one of the most critical lifelines for San Diegans impacted by substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. With 24 programs across 24 locations and a strong partnership with the County of San Diego, McAlister serves over 18,000 individuals each year, offering a full continuum of care spanning prevention, outreach, intervention, treatment, supportive housing, and aftercare. McAlister is a bridge to a full network of support, providing services that are targeted, evidence-based, trauma-informed, culturally competent, and co-occurring capable.
Most importantly, McAlister’s high-quality, affordable services are delivered with dignity and respect, welcoming individuals of all genders, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Guided by a belief in each person’s potential for positive change, the organization is dedicated to supporting recovery through professional services, compassionate counseling, and community support—ultimately healing lives and transforming communities through the miracle of recovery.
LEADERSHIP & CULTURE
This is an exciting time in McAlister’s history: in August of 2024, Executive Director Marisa Varond succeeded founder Jeanne McAlister, who transitioned to an advisory role after an amazing 47 years at the Institute’s helm. A 13-year veteran of the organization, Marisa brings deep experience at McAlister to the CEO role, having served in a range of program and development roles. As a member of McAlister’s Executive Team, Marisa helped grow the agency from a team of 178 staff and annual revenues of $8M to more than 400 employees and an annual budget of $58M. As the granddaughter of a recovering alcoholic, Marisa deeply understands the generational impact of this work and is uniquely qualified to carry Jeanne’s legacy into the future. A collaborative leader, Marisa is passionate about building a culture that aligns the strengths and talents of employees with the agency’s goals and takes great pride in supporting her team and building strong relationships. The Director of Residential Services will report to Michelle Zvirzin, Chief Programs Officer. With 17 years of service with McAlister, Michelle brings extensive experience and unwavering dedication to its programs. Having served in multiple roles within the organization, she is passionate about supporting both staff and clients with balance and care. Reflective of this culture of leadership, commitment, and continuity, McAlister’s Executive Team members have an incredible average tenure of nearly 16 years with the organization.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
LOCATION
This is an in-person role with an office located at 2049 Skyline Dr, Lemon Grove, CA 91945.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Director of Residential Services is a newly created role providing leadership and strategic direction across multiple residential treatment programs, ensuring high-quality, client-centered care for individuals in recovery. This includes the Kiva Program, Kiva Women’s Detox, New Connections, and Adult Detox, programs offering a 12-step recovery process, comprehensive case management, and access to medication-assisted treatment. Reporting to the Chief Programs Officer, the Director is responsible for shaping program operations, enhancing service delivery, and building a strong foundation for long-term success. They will oversee daily operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment approaches rooted in trauma-informed care and harm reduction. The Director will support a team of 100 staff members, including four direct reports: two Program Managers, the IMS Project Lead, and the Kitchen Manager. Working closely with organizational leadership and community partners, the Director will develop innovative strategies, strengthen program infrastructure, and expand services to better meet the needs of clients.
Strategic priorities for the first 12 months include:
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Staff Management/Supervision:
Resident Care and Support:
Compliance and Safety:
Program Development and Community Engagement:
Administrative:
BACKGROUND PROFILE
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