The Community Relations Manager is responsible for conceptualizing, developing and facilitating the implementation of projects related to commitment to community relations and being a valued neighbor in those communities that we serve. This position requires close coordination and communication with Executive Leadership, Defender Staff, clients and community organizations. In addition, this individual is required to work successfully with representatives from various communities, organizations and neighborhoods with respect to the diverse populations and cultures, served by the Defender Association. The Community Relations Manager serves as a liaison between the Defender Association and communities with serve with the goal of informing the practice of indigent defense from the lens of the community through extensive community engagement and strategic partnerships.
MAJOR AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:
• Develops a strategy and programs designed to represent the organization favorably and make positive contributions to the community.
• Creates and plans programs that engage and support the Defender stakeholders.
• Develops and expands relationships with community leaders and organizations.
• Supports policy initiatives and represents the organization at community events.
• Works in partnership with community-based organizations to develop and implement programs that will advance the mission of the Defender Association.
• Works with Executive Leadership, Department Heads and Defender staff to develop community relations plans and promote new and ongoing initiatives with the goal of improving outcomes for clients.
• Works with justice stakeholders, local government, community-based organizations and community coalitions to develop programs, events and new initiatives that promote community relations, policy and communications objectives.
• Conducts research and analysis as the basis for the identification and development of strategic initiatives designed to support the strategic plan and meet the needs of Defender clients.
• Partner with Communications Director to help inform and shape overall communications strategies and activities including social media/online.
• Serve as a catalyst with vision who can create excitement and energy around the Defender Association’s mission and encourage others to support the organization; persuasive, persistent, and determined in the pursuit of the organization's goals.
Education and Experience
• Master’s Degree in related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and expertise sufficient to perform the essential duties of the position.
• Minimum of five years’ experience in community relations and organizing.
Skills and Requirements
• Commitment to Defender Association’s mission with knowledge of the issues faced by the underserved in the community who need help with legal issues and knowledge of diverse communities who need guidance and assistance with criminal and youth justice.
• Established and effective communicator; highly skilled in writing and speaking; ability to communicate Defender Association’s mission and interests to a broad audience; adept at crafting proposals, correspondence, and other kinds of materials.
• Strong skills in community organizing and project management.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with and quickly gain the respect and support of various constituencies, including clients and staff members, stakeholders, civic leaders and community partners.
• Ability to strategize and be adept at planning, prioritizing, organizing, and following through; highly energetic and able to balance multiple competing priorities.
• Ability to be responsible and accountable to the organization, colleagues, clients and community.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel and accessing data and generating reports.
• Ability to travel and work non-traditional hours
Send cover letter and resume to: Nena Carter, Director of Recruitment and Development, Defender Association of Philadelphia, 1441 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102 via [email protected]