Director of Community Planning & Design
Regional Plan Association
Professional Area:
Architecture
Community Development and Redevelopment
Economic Planning and Development
Urban Design
Experience:
7-10 years
Phone:
2122532727
Email:
resumes@rpa.org
Location:
New York, NY
RPA is seeking a creative and dynamic professional to direct the organization’s community planning and design program. The program implements RPA principles and objectives in communities of all scales across the region, from dense urban centers to emerging exurban communities. The director will work with a talented staff to develop housing, economic development and design strategies for specific places, as well as for the metropolitan area as a whole. Working in the New York City office and reporting to the vice president for research, the director of community planning and design will manage and develop a comprehensive set of projects and policy initiatives to advance equitable, sustainable and attractive communities across the New York-New Jersey-Connecticut metropolitan area. A primary goal is to expand the community planning program to help build deeper partnerships and long-lasting relationships in the communities we serve, particularly with organizations representing low-income individuals and communities of color, as well as other underrepresented constituencies. The director will work closely with other RPA staff to integrate community planning into the organization’s environmental and transportation initiatives. The director also will staff a program advisory committee of RPA board members and experts.
RPA offers a unique opportunity to help shape the built environment in one of the world’s most complex metropolitan landscapes. Last year, RPA began working on a new regional plan for the tri-state metropolitan area – a blueprint for the region’s growth, sustainability, good governance and economic opportunity for the next 25 years. The director, working with RPA’s senior fellow for design and senior fellow for engagement and partnerships, will be responsible for shaping housing, economic development and design initiatives for the plan, and will help to build a network of constituents who will help carry out these recommendations. Responsibilities will include project development and management, including identification of funding opportunities; staff supervision; research and analysis of complex data; design studies; creation of plans, policy reports and other documents; public speaking; and leading coalitions and advocacy campaigns.
Applicants should have a minimum of 10 years of work experience in planning, urban design, housing, economic development, community development or related fields, a minimum of five years of management experience, and a master’s degree in planning, urban design or related disciplines. The position requires initiative and the ability to balance multiple priorities. Excellent writing and communication skills are essential, including the ability to convey community planning and design concepts to the general public as well as decision makers. Knowledge of planning and policy issues in the tri-state area is preferred.
Please submit your cover letter, resume and any other relevant materials here.
Application deadline: Open until filled