Director of Strategic Engagement

Company Description A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact.

As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What we offer:

Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.

Benefits - We care about your well-being.:

Agency Description Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) advances the prosperity of the city and the progress of its people through intentional and sustained stewardship of over 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, as well as through hundreds of safe, stimulating recreation, environmental, and cultural centers. PPR promotes the well-being and growth of the City’s residents by connecting them to the natural world around them, to each other, and to fun, physical, and social opportunities. PPR is responsible for the upkeep of historically significant Philadelphia events and specialty venues and works collaboratively with communities and organizations in leading capital projects and the introduction of inventive programming. To learn more about Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, visit www.phila.gov/parksandrec, and follow @philaparkandrec on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Job Description

• Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner, the Director of Strategic Engagement will execute strategies to enhance interactions and relationships with key stakeholders, including community groups, friends groups, advisory councils, schools, and intergovernmental agencies. They will work to coordinate across departments, aligning and integrating engagement strategies. As they develop strategies to increase community participation, they will foster partnerships, advocate for community-driven solutions, and ensure that PPR's efforts align with the department's broader goals of creating safer, greener, cleaner, and more inclusive neighborhoods. This position plays a pivotal role in designing and implementing engagement plans that foster collaboration and advancement of the department’s mission, as well as building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders to support strategic objectives. The Director will develop and deliver messages that resonate with diverse audiences, ensuring clarity and consistency. The Director will lead a team of community engagement liaisons, providing guidance, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment, and sustainable community spaces. Job Description Revised 3.5.2024 Essential Functions
• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive community engagement strategy that supports PPR's mission, aligns with the department's strategic priorities, and incorporates the mayor’s vision.
• Team Management: Oversee the Community Engagement team, including directors, specialists, and volunteer organizers.
• Community Partnerships: Foster relationships with community-based organizations, local businesses, and other stakeholders to identify shared goals and opportunities for collaboration.
• Program Development: Lead the development and implementation of community engagement programs, including those related to park stewardship and youth initiatives.
• Public Outreach: Represent PPR at community meetings, advisory councils, and other public forums to gather feedback, build relationships, and promote department initiatives.
• Staff Development: Provide training and support to the Strategic Engagement team and PPR staff to enhance their community engagement skills and knowledge.
• Data Analysis: Track and analyze data related to community engagement efforts to inform decision-making and measure program effectiveness.
• Grant Management: Oversee Advisory Council/ community grant applications, reporting, and compliance.
• Conflict Resolution: Address and resolve conflicts or disputes that may arise within the community or between PPR and its partners.
• Day-to-Day Operations: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Engagement and Strategy unit, including staff supervision, budget management, and performance measurement.
• Represent the department at meetings, public hearings, and events, advocating for the department's programs and initiatives.
• Provide strategic advice and support to the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners.
• Innovation: Identify new opportunities for partnerships or collaborations that benefit the department.
• Related duties as assigned. Required Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Develop Engagement Strategies: Designing comprehensive plans to engage and communicate with target audiences effectively. Develop and implement long-term strategies, manage teams, and foster partnerships.
• Stakeholder Management: Build strong relationships with diverse communities, understand their needs, and advocate for their interests.
• Program Development and Data Analysis: Design and implement effective programs, collect and analyze data to inform decision-making. Job Description Revised 3.5.2024
• Communication and Cultural Competence: Excel in written and verbal communication and demonstrate awareness and appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives.
• Adaptability and Program Development: Thrive in dynamic environments, adapt to changing circumstances, and design and implement effective programs.
• Event Management: Organizing events or initiatives that foster engagement and collaboration with stakeholders.

Knowledge Of:

• Philadelphia Neighborhoods: A deep understanding of Philadelphia's diverse neighborhoods, their unique characteristics, and the challenges and opportunities they face.
• PPR Programs and Initiatives: Familiarity with the full range of PPR programs and initiatives, including park maintenance, recreation activities, and community engagement efforts.
• City Government: Knowledge of Philadelphia's government structure, departments, and decision-making processes.
• Grant Funding: Understanding of grant writing, reporting requirements, and funding sources available for community-based projects.
• Non-Profit Organizations: Familiarity with the operations and challenges of non-profit organizations in Philadelphia.
• Community Engagement Best Practices: Knowledge of effective community engagement strategies and techniques.
• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in using data analysis tools and software.
• Project Management Methodologies: Familiarity with project management frameworks.
• Equity and Inclusion: Knowledge of equity and inclusion principles and their application in community engagement.

Skilled In:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement long-term strategies, manage teams, and foster partnerships.
• Community Engagement: Build relationships with diverse communities, understand their needs, and advocate for their interests.
• Communication: Excel in written and verbal communication, including public speaking and presentations.

Abilities:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement long-term strategies that align with department goals.
• Adaptability: Thrive in dynamic environments and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Cultural Competence: Demonstrate awareness and appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives

Qualifications:

Qualifications (Education and Experience):

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Urban Planning, Sociology, or a closely related field. Master’s is preferred.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in community engagement, public outreach or a related field. Proven track record of leading and managing teams and experience working with diverse communities and understanding their needs. Experience developing and implementing community-based programs.
• Licenses & Certifications: Professional Credentials in Community Engagement preferred.

We value diverse experiences and are open to flexible qualifications. If you are passionate about this role and meet some of the key criteria, we encourage you to apply. Additional Information TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a resume.

Salary Range:

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:

Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more. Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.

We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.:

Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays Generous retirement savings options are available Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.

Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!

Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth! *The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to [email protected].

For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx

Minimum Education Required: College degree