Director of Planning and Policy - Citizens for a Better Flathead - Kalispell, Montana

Got Passion? We are hiring for passion. Make no mistake, skills are critical. They are almost top on our list. Wake up each morning believing you can and must make a positive difference in the place and community you call home—let’s talk. Citizens for a Better Flathead (CBF) is seeking a full-time Director of Planning and Policy to start late May-July, 2022. Are you ready to help lead a small but dynamic organization and leadership team with a 30-year legacy of success? Then, we need your skills, experience, and passion and help us bring about powerful, practical, and positive solutions to the rapid growth that is occurring here. Our mission is to foster citizen participation and to champion sustainable solutions needed to keep the Flathead ecologically and economically healthy. Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field and ideally two to four (2-4) years of experience in a professional planning position. Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills, are essential. The location is Kalispell, Montana. Salary $48,000-$55,000 DOE. Interviews on-going. The position is open until filled.

Visit https://www.flatheadcitizens.org/ for the full job description and how to apply.

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Planning and Policy for Citizens for a Better Flathead (CBF) has thorough knowledge and experience implementing the principles and practices associated with land-use planning. CBF offers a collaborative, team-oriented workplace. You will have the unique opportunity to craft and collaborate on creative planning solutions for this area with residents and community leaders, and to enjoy the satisfaction and successes of working daily to keep the Flathead an incredible special place. The Director of Planning and Policy is a full time, professional staff person who is accountable to the Board of Directors and has the responsibility to provide executive oversight with the CBF Board for all aspects of CBF’s operations. As the primary face of the organization, the Director of Planning and Policy must be able to effectively articulate and inspire engagement in CBF’s mission and the challenges that rapid growth is bringing to this region.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT 60%

• Research, analyze, and develop CBF’s positions on planning and policy decisions shaping the Flathead’s future. Provide information, testimony, and represent the organization at public hearings and committee meetings.

• Encourage active and informed public participation in local government through outreach to the public on our research and policy positions.

• Reach out to and collaborate with local government officials, agencies, organizations, and community members in keeping with CBF’s mission.

• Coordinate strategic planning efforts and ongoing assessment of the CBF’s program priorities.

• Monitor the organization’s performance through incorporation of benchmarks, developed in cooperation with Board and staff, to assess organization, program, and staff effectiveness

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 25%

• Attend all regular monthly and, as requested, any special Board meetings. Prepare reports for board meetings including program and policy issue updates and workplans.

• Establish and maintain effective communication with the Board and staff. Work closely with Board committees as requested.

• Maintain an accurate and detailed record of time/work projects

• Work with Board to develop annual budget and work with the Finance Committee to assess and report to the Board monthly on the organization’s financial status in relation to budget.

• Lead grant writing efforts of the organization and participate in major donor cultivation.

OUTREACH 10% ~ STAFF MANAGEMENT 5%

• Assume primary responsibility as spokesperson for the organization; Work with staff and board to develop clear messages.

• Oversee preparation of print and social media outreach in collaboration with staff.

• Lead, inspire, manage, and encourage staff, interns, and volunteers, in daily work and long-term projects. Conduct staff evaluations and identify training opportunities for skill development.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field and two to four (2-4) years of experience in a professional planning position.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Highly motivated, a self-starter, and able to effectively manage multiple demands/deadlines.

• Experience in fundraising, nonprofit administration.

• Demonstrated achievement in creating and managing innovative and distinctive programs.

• Confident, positive, comfortable in public arena. Has an understanding and passion for the mission and goals of CBF.

• Operates well in a team environment. Experience networking and collaborating.

• Proficiency of basic computer usage and email communications. Programs we use include: Microsoft Office, WordPress, QuickBooks, Adobe Creative Suite, and database programs.

• Ability to work evenings, usually no more than once a week, to represent CBF at hearings, and occasional weekend events.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Full-time starting salary of $48,000-$55,000 depending upon experience.

• Additional employee health benefit package, ten (10) paid holidays, fifteen (15) vacation days per year for full-time employees, and sick leave.

• This is an Executive position whose duties and responsibilities allow them to be exempt from overtime pay provisions as provided by the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and any applicable state laws.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

To apply for the position, please submit the following:

1. Resume

2. List of at least three professional references

3. Letter of interest describing how your skills and experience address the job description

MATERIALS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO: citizens@flatheadcitizens.org. The position is open until filled. Interviews are ongoing. Any necessary questions regarding applications should be addressed to the above address. No phone calls, please.

MontanaPaul Moberly