Manager Outreach and Constituent Services

The mission of the Manager of Outreach and Constituent Services is to lead the development and execution of a comprehensive and strategic marketing, outreach, and communications plan that enhances public awareness of and access to the work of the City Council and the Legislative Department. This role is dedicated to fostering meaningful community engagement and participation in municipal governance through inclusive communications, media relations, constituent services, and special initiatives. In close collaboration with the thirteen elected City Council members, Legislative Department leadership, and cross-departmental peers, the Manager ensures that the voices of all community members are heard, valued, and reflected in the work of local government.

Work Location: This position works on-site.

The City of Minneapolis does not sponsor applicants for work visas.

1. Partners with Council Members, Legislative Department leadership, and City departments to design and implement a strategic plan that integrates marketing, outreach, communications, and constituent services in alignment with City Council goals and priorities.

2. Leads the Outreach & Constituent Services Division, including recruitment, supervision, performance evaluation, and project assignment. Serves as a member of the Legislative Department management team.

3. Advises Council Members and City officials on outreach and public relations strategies related to City policies, priorities, and programs. Oversees communications for citywide events from concept through production, including content creation, graphic design, and digital/print materials.

4. Represents the City Council in integrated public information efforts during emergencies and disasters. Serves as a designated spokesperson and liaison to the City's Joint Information Center and prepares elected officials to communicate sensitive matters to diverse audiences.

5. Manages media relations, including interviews, press conferences, and briefings. Oversees official social media platforms, develops or approves content, and ensures compliance with media policies. Provides media training and maintains strong media relationships.

6. Responds to media inquiries on behalf of Council Members and the Legislative Department, including sensitive or controversial topics. Coordinates with the City Attorney's Office and City Communications as needed.

7. Builds relationships with community and ethnic media, pitches stories, and ensures timely, accurate responses to inquiries. Manages communications for both Legislative Department and partner initiatives, including during off-hours when necessary.

8. Researches, writes, and edits speeches, statements, articles, and editorials for Council Members and the Legislative Department, often accompanied by multimedia content.

9. Develops and implements civic education and literacy programs to inform and engage residents about City government, with a focus on the City Council's roles and responsibilities.

10. Monitors and evaluates outreach and engagement efforts using tools like surveys and analytics. Incorporates community feedback to refine strategies and improve impact.

11. Oversees constituent services programming and supports ward offices by developing guides, templates, scripts, and training. Promotes a collaborative and positive working relationship between ward offices and the Outreach & Constituent Services Division.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Regular Indoor Office Environment.

MINIMUM EDUCATION:
Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Political Science, Public Administration or equivalent.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE
Five years of directly related work experience, including two years of supervisory/management experience.

EQUIVALENCY
An equivalent combination of education and highly related experience in a similar environment may be considered.

REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS:
You must attach a resume and cover letter to your application and complete the supplemental questions. Without a resume and cover letter, the application may be deemed as incomplete and will not be considered further.

SELECTION PROCESS:
The selection process will consist of one or more of the following steps: a rating of relevant education and experience (100%). It is important that your application show all the relevant education and experience you possess. This information will be used to determine which candidates will proceed in the selection process. A submitted application is also used to verify the answers to any supplemental questions. Only those candidates who attain a passing score (70%) on each step in the selection process will be placed on the eligible list. The City of Minneapolis Human Resources Department reserves the right to limit the number in any phase of the selection process.

INTERVIEW SELECTION:
The hiring authority reserves the right to determine the maximum number of candidates to interview from the established eligible list. If the hiring authority decides to interview other than by exam score order, they may select additional people to interview based on a candidate's education or experience related to the field, work history, or skills uniquely related to the operational needs of the position.

BACKGROUND CHECK:
The City has determined that a criminal background check and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be further considered for the position.

UNION REPRESENTATION:
This position is not represented by a bargaining unit. Review Civil Service Rules here: https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/departments/hr/civil-service-rules/.

ELIGIBLE LIST STATEMENT:
The names of applicants who meet minimum qualification and who pass the screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration. This list will be certified to the hiring manager who may use the list to fill a vacancy of the same job title. This eligible list will expire two (2) months after it has been established.

1. Possesses a deep understanding of media relations, strategic public relations planning, and public information campaign development.
2. Demonstrates the ability to develop and execute comprehensive communication and outreach plans by analyzing target audiences and market opportunities, defining effective strategies, and measuring outcomes to drive improvements.
3. Applies marketing principles to craft compelling messages and manage communications across multiple platforms to enhance public awareness and perception.
4. Communicates complex messages clearly and effectively, tailoring content to resonate with diverse audiences and ensure engagement and impact.
5. Produces well-organized, professional written materials using proper grammar, punctuation, and AP style.
6. Builds and maintains strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including city leaders, staff, community organizations, media, and local partners.
7. Uses sound judgment and problem-solving skills to analyze complex situations, identify key issues, and develop balanced, effective solutions.
8. Proactively addresses challenges with creativity, resourcefulness, and a focus on achieving optimal outcomes.
9. Analyzes complex information, identifies patterns, and makes data-driven decisions.
10. Demonstrates strong project management and organizational skills by effectively managing multiple tasks and competing priorities while maintaining high standards.
11. Provides effective leadership and supervision by offering clear direction, guidance, and support to team members.

As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. Minneapolis has a large variety of careers for people of all experiences and backgrounds who come together for a singular purpose-serving the residents, businesses and visitors of Minneapolis.

The City of Minneapolis is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.