What: This position will be assigned to provide planning, policy and communication services to a major infrastructure client and will include such tasks as issue advocacy initiatives, conducting policy review and developing recommendations, and assisting with community level projects. This person must have superior writing and communication skills and have a strong ability to lead and direct multiple projects. Experience working with the public sector on policy, transportation and community issues is required. This work will be located in the western suburbs at the client’s office.
The Senior Project Manager is expected to exemplify the firm’s core values of leadership, problem-solving, accountability, professionalism, and continued personal and professional growth. Key duties include:
- Lead and manage various policy and planning initiatives for the client.
- Develop and implement strategic project plans and external relations plans.
- Closely and effectively coordinate with the project team and client staff on a regular basis including establishing and adhering to project timelines.
- Review, research and summarize best practices.
- Conduct research and write technical reports.
- Create overall messaging and timeline for implementation following the project schedule.
- Produce and manage the quality and content of project deliverables including fact sheets, project reports, newsletters and other project-related materials.
- Plan, implement and lead team meetings and public meetings.
- Maintain effective relationships with teaming partner firms, client staff, external stakeholders and the public.
- Direct project associates to assist with project deliverables, such as meeting minutes, project reports, meeting logistics.
- Bring new and innovative ideas to the project team for project implementation and external relations efforts.
- Conduct data collection and analyze data with the ability to translate information into appropriate communications for target audiences.
- Assist with project outreach, stakeholder engagement and external activities.
- Ensure QA/QC is being implemented on every project.
- Monitor project budgets and time schedules ensuring projects stay on track.
- Handle all other project management duties that arise.
- Good working knowledge of local and regional issues, transportation policy, community and business leaders, elected officials and related agencies.
- Superior writing and communication skills and ability to translate project technical terminology into clear, concise communications that is easily understandable to the public.
- Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills and professionalism are necessary since this position works with staff, clients and the general public.
- Ability to lead and facilitate meetings and demonstrate project leadership.
- Must be able to juggle a variety of tasks and projects simultaneously and prioritize efficiently while maintaining attention to detail.
- Ability to be flexible, well-organized and self-sufficient since projects are fast-paced and deadline driven.
- Proven QA/QC and editing skills.
- Adept at overseeing and delegating tasks to project associates.
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Planning, Urban Studies, Political Science or the equivalent related fields. A master’s degree is preferred.