Communication Director - Center for Neighborhood Technology - Chicago, IL

Communication Director
Center for Neighborhood TechnologyChicago, IL

The core task of the Communications Director is to position CNT, both nationally and locally, as a leading source of strategies, tools, and policies that promote urban sustainability and equity.

CNT's Communications Director is a strategic thinker adept at communicating with a range of key audiences, including policy makers, practitioners, local officials, industry leaders, and the media, at the local, regional and national levels. The Communications Director will help CNT shape key messages and position the organization and its strategies with target audiences. Working with the CEO and senior staff, the Communications Director is responsible for raising the visibility of CNT as a thought leader and effective practitioner in its program areas, and assist program managers in achieving their communications objectives.

The Communications Director reports to the Senior Vice President, and supervises a Communications Coordinator and Graphic Designer. S/he will work closely with CNT's Development Team and program staff to implement communications and fundraising strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities
Communications Strategy

• Work with Board and staff to frame CNT's core messages and ensure their broad understanding and adoption
• Raise awareness locally and nationally of CNT's urban sustainability work in multiple regions around the country
• Help program managers advance their specific programmatic goals through strategic communications planning and guidance; identify target audiences for each program area; develop and implement a communications strategy for each major program initiative
• Monitor and evaluate news, trends and events, with an eye toward opportunities to communicate CNT's work

Organizational Voice

• Provide editorial and messaging support to CNT program staff on all communications materials, as well as communications training/coaching for program staff to build skills and capacity
• Edit and write blogs, speeches, talking points and presentations for senior leadership

Media Relations

• Increase CNT's national media visibility and thought leadership recognition
• Build relationships with reporters, bloggers, etc.
• Manage communications for the launch of new programs, products and reports

Print and Electronic Publications
Oversee the drafting, editing, design, publication, and distribution of written products, including annual report, research reports, newsletters, and other institutional publications and materials

Web Presence and Social Media

• Develop content for and maintain CNT's web presence and social media channels – keeping abreast of trends and technology and making improvements when necessary
• Build capacity of staff to engage with audiences on social media as subject matter experts
• Work with staff to improve the usability of our web-based information tools

Minimum Qualifications and Skills

• Five or more years of experience in a senior communications and/or policy role, or related fields such as journalism or public affairs
• The ability to think strategically and to position issues and ideas within the public debate
• Superb writing, editing, and verbal communications skills
• Solid organizational and interpersonal skills
• The ability to collaborate with others and work in diverse effective teams
• Success in planning and implementation of communication strategies aimed at policy change
• Track record of producing communications products that are clear, persuasive and suitable for their target audience

Desired Qualifications

• Established relationships with Chicago-area and/or national media
• Electronic media expertise in web development and social media
• A working knowledge of urban, environmental, and economic policy, community development, urban planning, housing, energy and/or environmental studies

Personal Characteristics
This position requires a person of intelligence and integrity who is highly motivated and team-oriented, enjoys organizing and coordinating projects and processes involving many people and issues, has demonstrated a commitment to CNT's goals and mission, can work under deadlines and maintain a cooperative spirit in a demanding work environment, and has a sense of humor.

This is an Exempt position. Salary is commensurate with experience.

To Apply
Please send cover letter, resume, and salary history to:

Center for Neighborhood Technology
Human Resources – Communications Director
2125 W. North Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647
Email to: Careers@cnt.org (link sends e-mail)

No phone calls please.

Community Development Program Manager - Washington, DC

Community Development Program Manager
Capitol Hill Housing 
Washington, D.C.

Job Summary:

The Community Development Program Manager, an employee of Capitol Hill Housing (CHH), will be tasked with creating an affiliated organization, with the majority of time spent managing the programs of the new organization.

Community Development Partners (CDP) is a soon-to-be-formed nonprofit organization, which will work to build community and further economic development in under resourced communities. CDP will be the administrator of a federal capacity building grant program. CDP will be a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit, based in Seattle, working with King County communities. CHH is launching this new organization.

The Community Development Program Manager will play a key role in successfully launching CDP, manage the administration and compliance of a federal grant program, and provide support to recipient organizations. The Community Development Program Manager will help build and work directly with the CDP Board of Directors.

This position will also provide support to CHH's Sustainability and Planning team in implementing Capitol Hill EcoDistrict projects and assisting with communications and fundraising. Working with the CHH CEO, Director of Community Programs and External Relations Director, and the Sustainability and Planning team, this position will perform complex and technical work that includes planning, developing, communicating and implementing community development and sustainability programs within CHH and other neighborhoods in the Seattle area.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

We are looking for a dynamic candidate to fill a variety of roles. The ideal candidate will have a wide range of knowledge of community development strategies; skills in community building and establishing strong relationships; experience in managing federal grants and contracts, as well as experience in program development, implementation and contract management. Candidates should also have experience working with diverse populations and knowledge of the Seattle/King County community development environment. The position also includes business development/fundraising, communications/engagement and other duties as assigned by the Director of Community Programs and External Relations. The proportions of time included below are estimates and subject to change based on the needs of the organization.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS (approximately 75%)

• Manage a capacity building grant process, including RFQ process, grant contracting, disbursement, and compliance with federal rules
• Prepare, monitor, track and administer capacity building grant contracts, performance and outcomes. Prepare reports as required. Hire and manage consultants and their budgets.
• Work with residents and key stakeholders to develop and implement neighborhood-driven plans for comprehensive revitalization. Develop outcome measurements and evaluation tools and processes to measure progress.
• Coordinate the 501(c)(3) formation of CDP, and the development of the Board of Directors.
• Work closely with neighborhood partners to provide programmatic and organizational development expertise, technical assistance, training and support. Support the community in various aspects such as: community organizing and community building strategies, development of work plans, group decision-making and consensus gathering, hiring and training community staff, organizational structure and development, and other capacity building activities and support as appropriate. Maintain an in‐depth knowledge of their organizational conditions, programs and projects.
• Identify, cultivate, and maintain partnerships and resources to support neighborhood efforts; manage complex public and public‐private partnerships. Actively participate in and facilitate meetings.
• Prepare and manage program budgets, in consultation with the Community Programs and External Relations Director and relevant team members.
• Raise additional resources for the program. Identify prospective funding opportunities and prepare funding proposals, applications, reports, presentations, and tours as required by funders and others.
• Administer grants made in support of CDP efforts and ensure that communication with funders is provided on time and in a professional manner.
• Support CDP's communications strategy, including shaping the brand, developing content for print materials and building CDP's online presence.
• Collaborate and coordinate with CHH colleagues regarding other technical assistance, programmatic and real estate investments in CDP target neighborhoods.
• Assume responsibility for special projects and other assignments, as needed.

SUSTAINABILITY AND PLANNING (approximately 25%)

• Develop and implement internal and external programs in collaboration with the Sustainability and Planning Team. Program categories include green building (internal and external), community development, and community engagement.
• Create marketing collateral, presentations, newsletters, and website updates to support EcoDistrict programs and initiatives.
• Assist in organizing events, ranging from regular small community meetings to larger annual gatherings.
• Develop and sustain strong collaborative relationships with private, nonprofit, and public sector entities to advance sustainability programs and initiatives, including the Capitol Hill EcoDistrict.
• Provide support to the EcoDistrict Steering Committee and ad hoc working groups.
• Support grant writing and sponsorship efforts.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree. Four years of relevant experience may be substituted for a Bachelor's degree.
• Three or more years of community development experience. Applicant must demonstrate a successful track record of developing and leading programs in community/economic development, community organizing and engagement, and human capital development. The candidate does not need to be an expert in each of these sectors. The successful candidate, however, should be familiar with each of them to assist in crafting strategies to integrate each into a comprehensive community development program and a willingness to build this knowledge over time and build partnerships to enhance gaps in expertise.
• Self‐directed, solution‐oriented, problem solver who takes initiative and is interested in helping to create systems and processes to support this position.
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills to effectively collaborate with clients and colleagues, present information, and write cohesive reports for various audiences. This requires excellent research, writing, analytical, facilitation, project management, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines, respond to reporting requirements in a timely fashion and prepare simple budgets.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Capable of embracing and promoting a culture of individual and shared trust and accountability – internally and externally. Ability to organize people into a team and motivate them to work intently and efficiently together. Commitment to an inclusive, community‐based, resident‐driven model of community planning and decision‐making.
• Flexibility and poise in dealing with a diverse range of individuals and organizations, including foundations, public agencies, corporate leaders, community development organizations and neighborhood residents.
• Demonstrated ability to quickly adapt to new economic, political, and social environments.
• A demonstrated interest in and commitment to the revitalization of low- and moderate‐income communities.
• Ability to work in a fast‐paced business environment with minimal supervision and capacity to simultaneously work on multiple tasks and projects and set priorities for a challenging workload.
• Capacity to learn and navigate new software required for specific program initiatives.
• Proficiency with social media and the Microsoft Office suite.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in urban planning or related field.
• Familiarity with/connection to Puget Sound-area community development sector and neighborhood groups.
• Experience managing federal grant contracts, such as CDBG or HUD Section 4.
• Broad knowledge and passion for urban issues, green building and sustainability.
• Some page layout/design experience is helpful; HTML/WordPress skills.

How to apply
Capitol Hill Housing is an Equal Opportunity Employer; all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

To learn more about our rich benefits package, please visit our websitehttp://www.capitolhillhousing.org/about/benefits.php.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter and writing samples with your resume when you apply online at: http:www.capitolhillhousing.org/about/employment.php

Housing Coordination Services Manager - Chicago, IL

Housing Coordination Services Manager

Office of Housing Coordination Services

Illinois Development Authority

Chicago, IL

Illinois Housing Development Authority is looking for a Housing Coordination Services Manager.
This position performs all work of the Office of Housing Coordination Services (OHCS) as required by the OHCS Director and/or Assistant Director, with major emphasis placed on the State’s housing plans and progress reports, the local housing planning program (AHPAA), and related duties. Responsibilities include serving as lead staff/coordinator in the planning, development and production of all the State of Illinois Annual Comprehensive Housing Plans and Annual/Interim Progress Reports; coordinating the implementation of the Affordable Housing Planning and Appeal Act; Assisting in development of the HUD Consolidated Five-Year Plan, annual plans, and performance reports; Coordinating the nominations, review, and selection process for projects considered under the Annual Governor’s Affordable Housing Champion awards; Serving as IHDA’s liaison to various advisory groups as assigned, especially those related to planning, sustainability, place-based development, and rural housing.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• College degree (BA/BS) in Political Science, Planning, or a related field, preferably with a Master’s degree (Urban Planning, MPA, MBA)
• Relevant computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint) strongly preferred
• Proven communication skills in writing (technical reports, correspondence) and public speaking
• In-state travel required (primarily Springfield), must have valid driver’s license
• Experience in administering and/or utilizing federal/state/local housing and community development programs preferred
• Must have strong organizational abilities, and must be able to work independently with minimal supervision

Excellent benefits package, including 401 (k); immediate vesting.

Submit resume to:

Bill Pluta
Office of Housing Coordination Services (OHCS)
Illinois Housing Development Authority IHDA)
wpluta@ihda.org
312/836-5354

Development Services Manager - City of Altamonte Springs, FL

Development Services Manager 

City of Altamonte Springs

Professional Area: 

Economic Planning and Development

Website: 

http://www.altamonte.org

Location: 

Altamonte Springs, FL

Development Services Manager Senior level professional position in a dynamic city planning and development atmosphere. Directly manages Development Services staff and coordinates work performed by professional and technical staff members in allied departments; leads and coordinates the Development Review Committee team. Successful candidate will thrive on the challenge of creating economic sustainability through project negotiation, comprehensive development review, creative land development code solutions and exceptional customer service.

Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, civil engineering, or a directly related field; master’s degree preferred; five years progressively responsible experience with local government review processes; excellent written and verbal communication skills. Refer to the job specification for the full list of responsibilities and qualifications.

The complete job specification and application is available online at http://www.altamonte.org/Jobs.aspx?UniqueId=98&From=All&CommunityJobs=Fa....