Director's Office

The Director’s Office – by providing leadership to, and management and oversight of the entire agency – ensures a cohesive and strategic approach to improving and protecting the health, well-being, and self-reliance of all Montanans. Director Charlie Brereton was appointed to lead DPHHS by Governor Greg Gianforte in June 2022.

The Director's Office oversees the four overarching goals of the Department:

  • All Montana children are healthy, safe, and in permanent, loving homes.
  • All Montanans have the tools and support to be as self-sufficient as possible.
  • All Montanans are injury-free, healthy, and have access to quality health care.
  • All Montanans can contribute to the above through community service.

The DPHHS Executive Leadership Team is comprised of leaders that oversee the major organizational sections of the Department. The Department Director provides leadership, guidance, and direction to this team.

The Director oversees these major organizational sections of DPHHS, including the Deputy Director, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, State Medical Officer, Tribal Relations Manager, Office of Health and Human Services Innovation, Office of Legal Affairs, Office of Human Resources, Office of Inspector General, External Affairs, and the Public Health and Safety Division. Two Executive Directors who manage the Department’s Human Services and Medicaid and Health Services practices also report to the Director.

Administrative Support

The Director’s Office is also comprised of positions that provide further, targeted support across the agency.

  • State Medical Officer,  Maggie Cook-Shimanek (acting), (406) 329-1690
  • Tribal Relations Manager,   Lesa Evers , (406) 444-1813
  • American Indian Health Director, Stephanie Iron Shooter, (406) 444-5649
  • Communications Director,   Jon Ebelt, (406) 444-0936
  • Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Coordinator,  Brenton Craggs, (406) 444-6085
  • Faith and Community Based Services Coordinator, Rob Lawler, (406) 444-5635
  • Office of Administrative Hearings,  Afrah Al-Asadi (acting), (406) 444-4615
  • State Refugee Coordinator,   Kathe Quittenton, (406) 444-3868
  • Provider Relations Coordinator, (vacant)
  • Chief Employment and Training Officer, (vacant)

Director's Office Contact Information:

111 North Sanders, Room 301, Helena MT 59620
PO Box 4210, Helena MT 59604-4210
Main: (406) 444-5622
Fax: (406) 444-1970