Programming & Community Engagement Manager, Fordham Road Business Improvement District
Organization Description:
The Fordham Road Business Improvement District (BID) is dedicated to promoting the growth and vitality of the local business community and strengthening the local economy. Our team is passionate about community development and works collaboratively to enhance area maintenance and sanitation, provide business assistance and development services, improve security, beautify streetscapes, and showcase the area’s assets through innovative marketing and promotion. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion and are committed to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all employees. We work closely with public agencies, elected officials, cultural and educational institutions, and local organizations to serve our community effectively and efficiently. The BID covers Fordham Road from Washington Avenue to Jerome Avenue, including select commercial areas on side streets, and encompasses approximately 80 buildings and nearly 300 businesses ranging from national chains to local independent shops.
Values and Culture:
At Fordham Road BID, we believe in:
· Community Focus: We are dedicated to serving and improving our local community.
· Collaboration: We foster a collaborative environment where team members work together to achieve common goals.
· Innovation: We encourage creative thinking and innovation to solve problems and improve our services.
· Inclusivity: We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.
· Professional Growth: We support continuous learning and professional development for our staff.
Job Description:
The Programming & Community Engagement Manager will play a crucial role in the Fordham Road BID by developing, designing, and delivering commercial revitalization programs and services. This position involves implementing projects that address the needs identified by the Fordham Commercial District Needs Assessment (CDNA) and managing the Fordham Forward initiative, a community-centered coalition of local stakeholders leading collaborative projects to enhance the greater Fordham area. Additionally, the role includes robust communication responsibilities, involving engagement with stakeholders within the Fordham Forward coalition, which encompasses stakeholders beyond the traditional BID sphere. This entails nurturing communication and collaboration among diverse stakeholders as well as engaging with stakeholders in the greater Fordham area to focus on common issues and concerns. Through effective communication and coordination, the Programing & Community Engagement Manager will lead the development and implementation of programs and projects that address the collective needs and goals of the community.
This full-time position reports to the CEO & President of the Fordham Road BID. The successful candidate must be available to start by Thursday, July 26, 2024. In compliance with federal law, all hired persons will need to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
Responsibilities:
· Take Initiative: Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate commercial revitalization programs for the Fordham Road commercial corridor and surrounding areas including merchant organizing, business support and retention, public space activation, and commercial district marketing and promotion. This includes proactively addressing quality-of-life issues and identifying potential social justice concerns and empowerment opportunities in collaboration with stakeholders.
· Manage Coalition: Lead and manage the Fordham Forward initiative, a community-centered coalition, ensuring effective collaboration among local stakeholders to drive sustainable community projects.
· Be Autonomous: Utilize insights from the Fordham Commercial District Needs Assessment (CDNA) to inform revitalization activities.
· Communicate Effectively: Create communication materials for local businesses, residents, and other stakeholders highlighting events, services, and programs.
· Engage Stakeholders: Facilitate discussions with a diverse range of stakeholders on complex issues affecting the Fordham Road commercial corridor.
· Build Partnerships: Establish and maintain community partnerships by attending meetings and community events, such as special events, precinct council meetings, and community board meetings.
· Collaborate with Agencies: Regularly liaise with multiple City agencies (SBS, DOB, DOT, DCWP, FDNY, NYPD, DSNY, etc.) to leverage resources and secure necessary support for projects and initiatives.
· Measure Impact: Track and measure program metrics and impact.
· Secure Funding: Identify and apply for grants to fund local projects.
· Intern & Volunteer Management: Oversee the recruitment, training, and coordination of interns and volunteers to support various projects and initiatives.
· Connect Resources: Link local stakeholders with additional economic development resources offered by the City of New York.
· Budgeting: Develop and manage budgets for various programs and initiatives, ensuring responsible allocation of resources and financial oversight.
· Adapt as Needed: Perform other tasks as assigned and adapt to changing needs of the BID.
Minimum Qualifications:
· Experience: Three or more years of experience in commercial revitalization, community nonprofits, community-based planning and organizing, and/or neighborhood development.
· Engagement: Commitment to engaging diverse constituents in low- and moderate-income communities and understanding their perspectives and needs.
· Analytical Skills: Strong aptitude for interpreting data and data trends.
· Relationship Building: Proven ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, elected officials, non-profits, and community groups.
· Project Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, providing timely and clear updates to supervisors.
· Attention to Detail: Organized, efficient work style with high accuracy, attention to detail, and follow-through.
· Passion: Demonstrate a passion and commitment to creating vibrant neighborhoods and commercial corridors.
· Flexibility: Willingness to take on multiple roles as needed and work flexible hours, including some weekends and evenings.
· Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.) and Wix.
Preferred Skills:
· Bilingual (Spanish).
· Familiarity with the Fordham Road neighborhood/commercial corridor.
· Knowledge of community organizing, consensus, and coalition-building techniques.
· Experience with digital and social media marketing and campaigns.
· Experience engaging with corporate partners, government agencies and individual donors to support local projects.
Desired Qualifications:
· A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least two years of full-time experience in urban planning, community organizing, public administration, project management, or real estate (preferred).
· An associate degree from an accredited college or university and at least three years of full-time experience in one of the above fields (minimum).
Compensation:
The salary range is between $65,000 and $72,000, commensurate with experience. 40 hours a week with some flexibility required. Competitive benefits package including health and dental insurance.
How to Apply:
Submit the following documents to info@fordhamroadbid.org. Please send all documents as PDFs and include “Programming & Community Engagement Manager” in the subject line. Label all documents as [FirstName][LastName]_ [document name].
· Resume
· Cover letter
· 3 references (listed in the body of the email)
o Full Name
o Title & Organization
o Phone Number
o Email Address
Application Deadline: Wednesday, June 26, 2024 12:00 PM
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $65,000.00 - $72,000.00 per year
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Bronx, NY 10458 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Bronx, NY 10458: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person