Charter Review Project Manager

Mayor's Office Duties: Reporting to the Legislative Liaison, the Charter Review Project Manager will be responsible for overseeing the City?s charter review process, which seeks to comprehensively review the City?s current charter and to recommend changes to ensure Somerville?s government meets the current and anticipated needs of our residents and is responsive to the challenges of today and tomorrow. The employee will coordinate all aspects of the charter review process, including but not limited to establishing and staffing a Charter Review Commission, managing the technical expert procured by the City to advise on the process, and leading a robust community engagement effort. Essential Functions: The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Coordinate and facilitate meetings of the Charter Review Commission. Serve as point person and manage the contract for the technical expert procured by the City to advise on the charter review process. Conduct research on charter review processes in other communities, especially in Massachusetts, paying particular attention to the community engagement strategies utilized. Collaborate with the technical expert to write reports and memos synthesizing research for the Commission, the City, and the public. Work with the Charter Review Commission to plan and execute a community engagement strategy that effectively presents information and solicits input related to the charter review process. The community engagement strategy should be designed to reach all segments of Somerville?s population, including community members who might not typically attend traditional in-person community meetings. Update the Commission regularly on community feedback received to inform the Commission?s decisions and recommendations. Work with the Commission to provide updates to the Mayor, City Council, and School Committee about the charter review process as needed. Work with the Commission to draft and present recommendations. Requirements: Education and Experience: A bachelor?s degree and at least 2-3 years of legal education or municipal policy experience are recommended, or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Current or recent graduate students are encouraged to apply. Knowledge, Abilities and Skill: Knowledge: Working knowledge of Massachusetts municipal and State law and best practices; working knowledge of effective community engagement strategies; working knowledge of computer software involved in creating visual presentations, flyers, and communication aids. Abilities: Ability to interact well with City employees and elected officials and with members of the public; ability to speak effectively and to communicate with individuals and groups; ability to handle problems effectively; ability to adapt and be flexible in response to quickly changing situations; ability to operate a computer; ability to maintain confidential information; ability to maintain, manage, and organize records; ability to work independently and set priorities. Skill Excellent organizational skills; excellent communication skills; excellent interpersonal skills; skills in the use of personal computers and office software including word processing, internet, and spreadsheet applications.