Community Relations Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Job Description We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Community Relations Supervisor for our Department of Economic & Social Advancement. The Community Relations Supervisor will serve as a strategic advisor to department's executive leadership concerning City of Raleigh advisory Boards and commission's functions, community programming, accessibility initiatives, and external partnerships. This role will support the continued development of a departmental strategy specifically related to the City's advisory Boards & Commissions housed within the Department of Economic & Social Advancement, as well as a division strategy for specific social and community focus areas.

This position is required to attend, lead, or support evening and weekend activities as needed. About You: The successful candidate will bring their passion and expertise in outreach, engagement, and partnership to guide the Community Relations division in their outreach and advocacy efforts. This candidate has a proven track record of successfully liaising with advisory bodies, advocating for community cohesion, and leading non-profit and community partnerships.

We are looking for an innovative, engaging, and human-centered leader to take our Community Relations team to the next level. About Us: The Department of Economic & Social Advancement (ESA) is dedicated to cultivating strong partnerships both within our organization and throughout the Raleigh community. Our unwavering commitment is to cultivate a thriving work and community environment where every individual is not only valued but also respected.

The Department of Economic & Social Advancement oversees strategy, programming, and projects related to social cohesion and economic development opportunities through our Business Engagement & Opportunities Program, Small Business Development, and Community Relations divisions. Through education/awareness, policy development, assessment, and action planning for issues related to community needs, local government partnerships, and economic growth. ESA is charged with identifying opportunities and implementing practices that advance the City of Raleigh in its economic and social cohesion efforts.

Attachments Required: Candidates interested in this position should provide the following items when applying: Resume/CV Cover Letter (discussing interest in the role and ability to perform specific responsibilities based on previous employment experience) Personal Statement (discussing alignment with the Departmental services and programs and the City Values) Duties and Responsibilities The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. Strategy Provide strategic guidance, insights, and recommendations as it relates to external partnerships and community programming related to community and economic development Develop and execute strategy and plan outlining goals and objectives for division areas, including accessibility initiatives, ADA compliance, narrative change, and community integration Work closely with, develop, and execute strategic planning for involvement and collaboration with advisory boards and commissions Assist in shaping and executing the department's strategic vision, goals, and initiatives in alignment with the organization's overall mission Oversight of Departmental Advisory Bodies Provide general oversight of engagement with all ESA advisory Boards, Committees, & Commissions (BCCs) including, but not limited to serving as a primary liaison for assigned BCC, supervision of assigned city staff liaisons to advisory bodies, and serving as the departmental representative for respective advisory bodies for matters presented to council Assist staff in executing departmental advisory bodies' workplan efforts and advocate for opportunities to enhance efficiencies in operations Utilize a community-centered approach to achieve goals and directives of BCCs, ensuring adherence to City and State legislation relating to BCCs and public meetings Remain up to date on all BCC programming and engagement and management of fiscal processes associated with the functioning of Boards & Commissions.

Work closely with executive leadership to develop and implement processes that enhance the partnership between advisory BCCs, Department of Economic & Social Advancement, and City Council Oversight of External Partnerships Develop and execute a cohesive internal and external engagement plan including collaborations, partnerships, and community programming centered around the integration and celebration of the rich history within the City of Raleigh Cultivate and manage relationships with external departments, governmental bodies, community organizations, and stakeholders to enhance collaboration and partnerships that support economic development and social cohesion efforts Collaborate with Small Business Development and Business Engagement & Opportunities Program divisions, and organizational partners to develop programming and initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility, achieving meaningful engagement, and improving quality of life Facilitate joint initiatives and projects with external partners to drive shared goals and promote a more inclusive community Regularly assess and report on effectiveness of community programming and alignment with strategic plan, departmental business plan, and other guiding documents. Contribute to the tracking and reporting of progress and action planning Support Organizational Initiatives Support Executive Leadership with the execution of organizational programming that aims to bridge gaps in cultivating community cohesion Serve as a representative for the Department of Economic & Social Advancement for events organized internally and with external partners and stakeholders Support flagship departmental programs and initiatives, including but not limited to key training presentation, development, and facilitation Support departmental consulting efforts to assist external departments in their application of economic development and social cohesion efforts and strategies Supervision Provide leadership, guidance, and accountability to Community Relations team. Directly train, supervise, evaluate, and mentor direct reports at the senior analyst and analyst levels Assume the responsibilities of direct and indirect reports in the event of position absences and vacancies, with support of Assistant Director Advocate for the growth needs of the Community Relations Team utilizing strategic foresight and consideration for the department's business plan Foster a positive work environment, promote teamwork, and encourage continuous learning and professional development for team members.

As a leader in the department, this role will be expected to uphold, promote, and demonstrate the mission of the department by enacting best practices for inclusive supervision Other Duties Assume leadership of activities that arise from the departmental strategy, fostering innovative solutions and actionable steps Work closely with financial administrators within the department to manage team budget and procurement, and serve as approver for purchases related to Community Relations programming and other departmental needs Support flagship departmental programs and initiatives Maintain a commitment to advancing the work, the mission, and vision of the Department of Economic & Social Advancement within the City of Raleigh. This position will be expected to remain up to date on the issues and trends that impact the community and associated implications for local government Typical Qualifications Required Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences, Public Administration, Social Work, or related field; 5 to 7 years' experience in neighborhood outreach, community development, program supervision, or a related field OR Any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted Preferred Qualifications: 3 to 5 years' experience in developing community and social cohesion programming and programming curriculum 3 to 5 years' experience working with non-profits or local government 3 to 5 years' experience working with advisory bodies Demonstrated experience with and understanding of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and best practices related to ADA Compliance and accessibility Additional Information Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Proven experience in a strategic leadership role within a community-focused organization or related field Experience adapting to changing priorities, circumstances, and community dynamics while maintaining a positive and proactive approach Exceptional leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills Ability to analyze complex issues and provide strategic recommendations Experience in project management and strategy execution ADA and Other Requirements: Work Environment and Physical Effort: Sedentary: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, a negligible amount of force frequently, and/or constantly having to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.

Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met. Work Environment: Work is typically performed in an office or similar indoor environment. Employees may occasionally work in or around an outdoor setting and in a vehicle.

Work Exposures: Work in this position does not require frequent environmental exposures. Employees may occasionally be exposed to Individuals who are hostile or irate. City of Raleigh is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer.

Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.