Director of Community Affairs

Greater Portland and Sebago Lakes' regional council, Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG), is seeking a Director of Community Affairs to join our team. GPCOG unites cities and towns across rural, suburban, and urban areas to collaboratively plan for our region’s future. We are committed to enhancing community life and making our region a top destination through various programs, services, and initiatives.

We value the growing diversity of our communities and integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into all aspects of our work. This commitment drives us to create an inclusive organizational culture and ensure equitable access and opportunities for all.

As an equal opportunity employer, GPCOG observes all applicable laws and welcomes applicants regardless of race, color, creed, gender, or other protected characteristics. We encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for our career opportunities.

To support our team, we offer benefits that promote work/life balance, including flexible schedules, remote work options, professional development, and health insurance. As part of GPCOG’s leadership team, you will focus on engaging and advocating for GPCOG’s member communities, foster strong relationships with regional elected officials, municipal managers, and other key stakeholders while advancing GPCOG’s priorities through effective advocacy, coalition building, and strategic events. The Director will ensure that GPCOG provides high-quality service and value to its members while mobilizing support for regional and state-level initiatives. If you have a passion for building relationships and bringing about change, creating the kinds of places where people want to be and have demonstrated experience successfully managing challenging issues, we’d love to have you join us!

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Member Engagement

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with elected officials and municipal managers across the region to deepen GPCOG’s understanding of community needs and priorities.
• Oversee the Tend the Garden initiative, ensuring all member communities receive exceptional service and value.
• Mobilize local officials to advocate on key issues at the state and federal levels.

Advocacy

• Lead GPCOG’s advocacy program by developing and advancing policy priorities.
• Build and maintain relationships with state and federal policymakers, advocacy coalitions, and strategic partners.
• Organize grassroots mobilization efforts to strengthen advocacy campaigns.
• Oversee the planning and execution of advocacy campaigns, including outreach, messaging, and coalition-building efforts.

Metro Regional Coalition (MRC)

• Provide staff support for the Metro Regional Coalition, ensuring smooth operation and alignment with MRC priorities.
• Develop and implement strategies to advance the coalition’s goals and initiatives.

Member Events

• Lead the planning and execution of member engagement events, including:
  • Subregional gatherings.
  • Chairs in a Circle.
  • Coffees with COG.
  • Welcome & Congrats programs.
  • GPCOG’s Annual Summit.
  • Other member events and initiatives.

Strategic Leadership

• Serve as a key member of GPCOG’s leadership team, contributing to the organization’s strategic direction.
• Collaborate across departments to align member engagement and advocacy efforts with broader organizational goals.
• Represent GPCOG at public events, meetings, and conferences to promote the organization’s mission and build relationships.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

• Demonstrated background in public administration, political science, communications, or a related field.
• At least eight (8) years of relevant professional experience and demonstrated expertise in in advocacy, public affairs, municipal government, or community engagement.
• Proven track record of developing and executing advocacy campaigns and building coalitions.
• Experience working with elected officials, municipal managers, or public sector leaders.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with a focus on collaboration and consensus-building.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of state and federal legislative processes, with the ability to translate policy priorities into actionable advocacy strategies.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Event planning and facilitation skills, with experience in executing high-profile gatherings.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

WHAT TO KNOW

• GPCOG offers a flexible hybrid work model, allowing remote work with the requirement to attend community events and meetings in the Greater Portland area.
• This role involves occasional travel within the Greater Portland region and may require extended hours.
• Enjoy a dynamic, flexible, and creative work environment with competitive benefits, and annual salary to around $100K for a well-qualified candidate.
• Work hours are generally flexible, up to 40 hours per week, with some adjustments possible based on your needs and contributions.

WHAT TO DO NOW

1. Visit https://tinyurl.com/5n79dkhb no later than January 12, 2025, to provide your contact information, and:
   1. Upload your cover letter. Explain why you are interested in joining GPCOG as Director of Community Affairs.
   2. Upload your résumé. Include details about your education, relevant experience, demonstrated expertise, and other skills.
2. All applications must be submitted through this application portal to be considered.

MORE TO KNOW

GPCOG operates as the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (PACTS), the regional Economic Development District, and the state-recognized regional planning agency, serving 25 member municipalities and other communities across the Greater Portland region. As Maine’s economic hub, Greater Portland offers a vibrant and dynamic environment for both work and living. GPCOG is dedicated to advancing racial equity, social justice, and environmental sustainability, striving to foster inclusive and sustainable prosperity throughout the Greater Portland and Sebago Lakes regions.

Visit us at www.gpcog.org.