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Civic Engagement and Special Projects Manager, Univ. of Chicago - Chicago

Civic Engagement and Special Projects Manager
University of Chicago - Chicago, IL
Under direct supervision, manages all aspects of a small non-technical (not information technology or construction related) project or phases of a larger project. Coordinates the activities of a project team, identifies appropriate resources needed, and develops schedules to ensure the timely completion of projects. Must be familiar with project objectives, as well as the role and function of each team member, to effectively coordinate the activities of the team. Communicates with a Senior Project Manager regarding the status of specific projects.

About the Unit
As part of the University of Chicago's efforts to enhance the arts, the Arts and Public Life (APL) Initiative actively encourages the development of relationships between the creative and artistic projects taking place at the University of Chicago with those that are taking place throughout the South Side, the city and beyond. Arts and Public Life strengthens and develops sustainable partnerships with local artists and arts organizations with a focus on three primary areas of creative activity: 1) Advancing artistic ambition by supporting the creative production and collaboration of artists from emerging to professional 2) Amplifying cultural assets by engaging in innovative partnership with local cultural institutions and networks 3) Revitalizing neighboring communities by designing platforms for creative art-making and cultural endeavors.

Unit Job Summary
Civic Engagement and Special Projects Manager: Work closely with APL Director, Associate Director of Administration, Associate Director of Community Arts Engagement, and the Office of Civic Engagement to manage all community relations for the Arts and Public Life Initiative to develop and maintain relationships with Washington Park's community organizations, key stakeholders, members and visitors of the Arts Incubator in Washington Park. Establish partnerships with community and civic leaders, partners and organizations, to establish clear lines of communication between community organizations and partner groups within and outside the university. Engage appropriate members of the University, community and media in communicating the programs and vision of APL. Working in partnership with the UChicago Arts team, develop strategic, marketing plans to effectively communicate APL programs and initiatives to the surrounding community as well as to University of Chicago faculty, staff and students. Coordinate public events including communications with related staff regarding marketing, documentation and staffing.

Assist the Director and Associate Directors in managing partnerships with various University units including the Court Theater, Gray Center, Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts and the Office of Civic Engagement. Manage and coordinate the writing of communication materials for APL. Assist the APL team by creating policy, strategy and guidelines with for enacting and communicating the APL vision. Manage special economic development initiatives for APL, including project development and program expansion including budgets related to special initiatives. Work with architectural teams and urban planners to manage special projects for APL, and identify and find solutions related to community engagement and civic outreach. Coordinate communications with civic partners on behalf of APL and the Office of Civic Engagement.

Education
Bachelor's Degree with experience in the community arts sector, or a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the community arts, urban planning, or architecture sector required.

Experience
see above

Competencies
Excellent writing skills required.
Demonstrated success in project management, program planning, urban planning and design, and project delivery required.
Strong organizational, planning, problem solving and project management skills required.
Ability to take initiative, work independently and contribute as a member of a team required.
Maintain deadlines, work within budgets, with the ability to set priorities and manage several projects simultaneously required.
Ability to manage a workload which balances long-range planning with the unanticipated daily demands of managing publicly visible projects required.
Familiarity with general business practices required.
Commitment to providing a high level of service and working in a team environment required.
High degree of professionalism required.
Attention to detail required.
Ability to handle confidential information with utmost discretion required.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills required.
Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and under tight deadlines required.
Strong analytical and organizational skills required.

Background in managing community initiatives and deep relationships with the South Side community is preferred.

Required Job Seeker Documents
Resume
Cover Letter

Optional Job Seeker Documents

Work Location
Campus - Hyde Park

Other Work Location

Work Schedule
Full-Time

Hours/Week
37.5

If other than regular hours (M-F, 8:30-5:00) please detail
8:30-5:00, Schedule may vary based on need

Benefits Eligible?
Yes

Union (If applicable):
Non-Union

Pay Grade
NA

Pay Range
Depends on Qualifications

Pay Frequency
Monthly

Does this position require incumbent to operate a vehicle on the job?
No

Is a Background Check Required?
Yes

Is Drug Testing Required?
No

Employee Referral Bonus Amount
None

Posting Date
09-23-2013