Description
The Director of Development & Engagement is an essential member of the 48th Ward Aldermanic Office. They will be responsible for implementing the alderwoman’s economic development vision by liaising with key stakeholders, managing development and infrastructure projects, and serving as the point person for zoning requests. This team member will be critical to the Participatory Budgeting process and community outreach. They will provide support to colleagues and constituents by assisting in daily office needs and communication. They will receive and investigate complaints, questions, and concerns from constituents and work with ward staff and city departments to seek a resolution. Working as a member of the core ward team, the Director of Economic Development will work closely with other staff members in the office and provide additional administrative support where it’s needed.
Strong ethics, transparency, and an actionable commitment to diversity are requirements of anyone working for Alderwoman-elect Manaa-Hoppenworth.
Salary range is $55,000-$65,000, depending on qualifications. Health insurance and benefits included. This position is expected to work onsite in the aldermanic office full time, and reports directly to the Chief of Staff.
Submit applications to apply@the48thward.org
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Manages ongoing development projects.
- Serves as the main point of contact for zoning requests.
- Manages the Participatory Budgeting process.
- Liaises with community groups, attends events as a representative of the office.
- Maintains records regarding inquiries, complaints, and correspondences, along with follow-up actions.
- Works closely with the Director of Neighborhood Services on volunteer management and coordination.
- Works closely with the Chief of Staff on a variety of issues in the 48th Ward and provides support where it’s needed.
- Apprises Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth and the Chief of Staff of sensitive or contentious issues and makes suggestions and recommendations.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Reside in the City of Chicago.
- Community organizing experience.
- Experience supervising staff.
- Project management experience.
- Ability to work in a face-paced, multi-faceted environment with many challenges and opportunities.
- Strong computer skills in Google Workspace and database management (experience with Airtable, Asana, or similar tools a plus) with an ability to learn and utilize new technologies.
- Ability to work with a broad array of stakeholders including constituents, elected officials, community representatives, advocates, government agencies, etc.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to deal with sensitive and difficult situations.
- Exceptional conflict resolutions skills.
- Bilingual preferred.
- Highly responsive public servant.