Dave Richard, executive director of the ARC of North Carolina, will be the next director of mental health, developmental disabilities and substance abuse services at the state Department of Health and Human Services.
He replaces acting director Jim Jarrard.
Richard has been at the ARC of NC for nearly 25 years. He starts his new job May 28.
"His extensive expertise in program implementation, public education, government affairs, and his deep understanding of individual and community needs will help us improve customer service as we seek to help every North Carolinian fulfill their potential," DHHS Secretary Aldona Wos said in a statement.
As ARC executive director, Richard was an outspoken critic of the Medicaid managed care system for mental health that now governs payments and treatment.
He said recently that he liked the plan for the statewide Medicaid waiver that Gov. Pat McCrory's administration is pursuing.


