ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Director of Strategic Planning and Innovative Initiatives will be instrumental in guiding RiseBoro’s strategic direction and fostering innovation across the organization. This role requires a strategic and creative leader with a deep understanding of community development and a track record of implementing innovative solutions. The Director will work closely with the CEO and other senior leaders to develop and execute strategies that advance RiseBoro’s mission and goals. Specific responsibilities include the following:

• Strategic Planning:

• Lead the development and execution of RiseBoro’s strategic plan, ensuring it aligns with the organization’s mission and long-term objectives.

• Conduct internal and external analyses to identify opportunities and challenges, and use insights to inform strategic decisions.

• Facilitate strategic planning processes, including setting priorities, defining goals, and creating action plans.

• Innovation Initiatives:

• Identify and promote innovative approaches to enhance RiseBoro’s programs and services in affordable housing, education, and senior citizen programming.

• Research and evaluate emerging trends, technologies, and best practices to incorporate into organizational strategies.

• Pilot and scale innovative projects, working collaboratively with teams to implement and assess new initiatives.

• Project Management:

• Oversee strategic projects and initiatives from concept through implementation, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and effective execution.

• Develop and manage project plans, timelines, and budgets, and ensure resources are allocated effectively.

• Monitor progress and evaluate outcomes, making data-driven recommendations for adjustments as needed.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with internal teams, including program managers and department heads, to integrate strategic and innovative initiatives into daily operations.

• Foster a culture of collaboration and creativity, encouraging staff to contribute ideas and solutions.

• Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including community partners, funders, and policymakers.

• Represent RiseBoro at external events and meetings to advocate for the organization’s strategic goals and innovative projects.

• Reporting and Communication:

• Prepare and present regular updates on strategic and innovation initiatives to the CEO, board of directors, and other stakeholders.

• Develop communication materials and reports to effectively convey the impact and progress of strategic and innovative efforts.

  COMPETENCIES

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and translate findings into actionable strategies.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders.

• Deep understanding of affordable housing, education, and senior services, particularly in urban contexts.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

• Demonstrated experience in leading strategic initiatives and implementing innovative solutions in complex environments.

• Commitment to RiseBoro’s mission, vision and values

• Ability to understand the concepts of institutional and structural racism and bias and their impact on underserved and underrepresented communities

• Have a demonstrated commitment to supporting communities who have experienced systemic oppression and bias (e.g. people of color, LGBTQ+ people, immigrants, justice involved persons, etc.)

  EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, social sciences, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in strategic planning, project management, or innovation roles, preferably within the non-profit sector.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)/Affirmative Action Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)/Affirmative Action Policy Statement

It is the policy of RiseBoro to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment. No individual will be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, age, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, political or union affiliation, marital or partnership status, sex, sexual orientation or affectional preference, gender identity, familial status, genetic information or predisposition or characteristic, disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, status as a veteran or member of the U.S. military and related obligations, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, job placement, compensation, benefits, training and apprenticeship, employee development, promotion, demotion, discipline, transfer, lay-off and recall, and termination. RiseBoro makes reasonable accommodations based on religion and/or disability as required by law, and requests for accommodation are to be directed to the Human Resources Department.