With more than three decades of professional success in the progressive treatment and criminal justice fields, Chris Petrozzi astutely recognizes both the challenges and the rewards he will face following his recent promotion to Spectrum Health Systems’ Chief Organizational Development Officer.
“The behavioral health field is highly dynamic from an accountability, regulatory, technological, and performance management standpoint,” he notes. “Our continued success will depend on our capacity to develop new systems, processes, structures, and methods to propel us further. I’m excited to spearhead that effort.”
“We don’t rest on our laurels or get lulled into complacency because of past successes,” he adds.
“If I had to identify my top two priorities it would be to continue to advance our compliance and quality improvement activities, and I’m also excited about building on employment engagement activities we’ve piloted. There is a whole body of literature that speaks to research-informed approaches to engaging and retaining staff. I think now more than ever there is a call for us all to get humble about what we think we know motivates and inspires staff.”
Chris joined Spectrum in 2012, bringing an extensive background in quality improvement, correctional and treatment systems assessments, program development, technical assistance, and realignments. Prior to taking on his new role, he served as Senior Vice President of Correctional Services, with responsibility for executive oversight of our nationwide programs. Spectrum’s Correctional Treatment Division was established in 1993 to provide specialized treatment to criminal offenders with a history of chronic substance use.
“There’s a misconception people have about whether justice-involved clients ever obtain long-term sobriety and become contributing members of society. The answer is a resounding yes. I and others are witness to it every day.”
“We have incredibly committed, selfless staff who offer hope and inspiration to our clients at a point in their lives when they begin to doubt if there is a way forward,” he continues. “I don’t think any of us ever stop believing in the strength of the human spirit.”
Before Spectrum, Chris had national oversight responsibilities for a large for-profit correctional treatment company and spent over a decade with the Colorado Department of Corrections in high level management and administrative positions. He has spearheaded major criminal justice and treatment reforms at the state level and has served as a consultant to the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the National Institute of Corrections. He holds a master’s degree in community psychology and a certificate of graduate studies in addictions.
“My career has been about making a difference in the lives of people, particularly underserved and justice-involved individuals whose lives have been harmed by substance use disorders,” Chris reflects. “Our company has stayed true to that mission for over a half century. I find that particularly endearing, specifically that I have an opportunity to contribute to our storied legacy.”
For more information about working at Spectrum Health Systems, visit the careers page on our website.
