Director, Outreach and Policy

Overview

The Director, Outreach and Policy will be responsible for developing the Veterans’ Services outreach strategies and directly managing outreach activities that promote and enhance Veterans’ engagement and military affairs.

Responsibilities

• Works closely with senior management to develop communication on a variety of strategic initiatives to advance the Commission’s position within the veterans and military network, as well as with the federal and state government.
• Supervises the Community Relations staff.
• Will be well-versed by the Commissioner on numerous policy and legislative-related issues. The Commissioner will determine which policies to focus on and instruct the director accordingly.
• Helps to influence the main objectives, as well as focusing on the impact of the Office of Veterans Services (OVS)’s overall outreach on the impressions of veterans and/or supporters.
• Communicates information to the public or employees, organizes outreach campaigns, and coordinates events.
• Develops and executes strategic advocacy plans, including public policy, legislative, and other outreach efforts with internal and external partners.
• Conducts research on veteran community issues to identify needs in specific areas such as housing, employment, and healthcare.
• Collaborates with non-profit organizations and city, state, and federal agencies to ensure policies are consistent with the quality of life expected of our Boston veterans and their families.
• Determines the overall strategies of the specific projects under their supervision (e.g., a PR or marketing campaign) and ensures that all internal and external communications related to them align tightly with OVS goals.
• Many of the services and benefits offered by OVS are impacted by the decisions made by the state legislature and federal government (VA, HUD, DOL). The director will be the Commissioner’s liaison in these matters.
• This position prefers Veterans, and Veterans are encouraged to apply.
• Performs related duties as required.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications

• Applicants must possess a minimum of four (4) years of working experience in the field of management and community relations, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory capacity.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Must have the ability to deal effectively and courteously with the general public and various governmental agencies.
• Applicants must possess strong computer skills and have proficient knowledge and experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook programs).
• Applicant must have the ability to:
• Plan, organize, and actively participate in community outreach events.
• Analyze and evaluate their effectiveness.
• Prepare and present statistical data and formal reports.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with the local media, press, government agencies, community organizations, and the general public.
• Bilingual is a plus.
• Must successfully clear a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check with the City of Boston. 

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: Non-Union/MM2-7

Hours per week: 35