Chief Public Health Hospital Bureau Counsel

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is seeking a dynamic attorney to serve as Chief Public Health Hospital (PHH) Counsel, an essential legal advisor and strategic partner to the state hospital system and the State Office of Pharmacy Services (SOPS). This leadership role ensures that the Commonwealth’s multi-specialty hospitals operate within all applicable legal frameworks while continuing to deliver high-quality, equitable care to patients across the state. As Chief Counsel, you will supervise a team of attorneys and support staff to provide expert legal guidance for the day-to-day legal needs of the PHH system as well as advising on legislative initiatives, regulations, and compliance issues that influence hospital governance, patient rights, and medical staff operations—playing a key role in protecting the integrity of public healthcare delivery.

This position offers a unique opportunity to shape policy and practice within a system that directly impacts the health and wellbeing of communities statewide. As the head of the PHH Legal Unit, the Chief Counsel works closely with hospital leadership to foster collaboration and consistency across the hospitals.  The role combines high-level legal strategy, leadership, and hands-on counsel, making it ideal for an experienced attorney who is passionate about public service and committed to ensuring the effective, lawful, and compassionate operation of Massachusetts’ public health hospitals.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

·       Manage and coordinate all legal services for the Public Health Hospital (PHH) Bureau, including the public health hospitals and the State Office of Pharmacy Services (SOPS).

·       Provide comprehensive legal counsel and written opinions to hospital leadership, governing boards, and senior management on matters affecting hospital operations and compliance.

·       Oversee and supervise attorneys, paralegals, and support staff within the PHH Legal Unit, ensuring effective workload distribution, mentorship, and professional development.

·       Advise on and interpret legislation, regulations, and policies impacting the PHH system, including open meeting law, conflict of interest law, public records law, and privacy regulations.

·       Direct and manage administrative and tort claims, including malpractice, personal injury, and property damage, while ensuring timely resolution and risk mitigation.

·       Represent the Department in legal proceedings, including guardianship petitions, commitment hearings, and other court matters involving PHH facilities and patients.

·       Coordinate legal and regulatory compliance efforts among the PHH Bureau, SOPS, and other Department programs or bureaus to promote consistent and efficient practices.

·       Develop and review hospital policies, internal procedures, and operational standards to maintain compliance with accreditation and regulatory requirements.

·       Provide guidance on contractual matters, interagency agreements, and collaborations with state and federal partners to support the PHH mission and operational goals.

·       Evaluate and comment on proposed legislation and draft regulations and guidance documents to support the Department’s public health and legal objectives.

Preferred Qualifications:

·       Demonstrated leadership experience in managing legal personnel and overseeing a diverse and complex caseload within a public or healthcare setting.

·       Comprehensive knowledge of trial and appellate practice, administrative la