Business Development & Community Engagement Senior Specialist

Affinity Plus•St. Paul, MN

20h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Business Development & Community Engagement Senior Specialist serves as a strategic ambassador for Affinity Plus, driving membership growth, strengthening community relationships, and advancing the credit union’s mission through high-impact marketing, partnerships and engagement strategies. This role leads the development and execution of integrated business development and community engagement strategies that expand Affinity Plus’ reach, deepen trust, and deliver measurable value to members and communities. By aligning local market opportunities with enterprise priorities, this role plays a critical part in sustainable growth and community impact. Working cross-functionally, the the Business Development & Community Engagement Senior Specialist ensures that business development, partnerships, and community initiatives are strategically aligned, scalable, and reflective of the credit union’s member-first values.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in community engagement, business development, or marketing.
Broad cross-functional knowledge of department's role and how it connects to operations, functions and services.
Demonstrated ability to independently solve complex problems by analyzing data, identifying root causes, evaluating alternative options, and implementing effective solutions.
Proven ability to analyze complex situations, recommend tailored solutions, and influence decision-making.
Ability to anticipate operational risks and recommend and/or implement changes to mitigate impact
Strong track record of establishing trusted partnerships across functions.
Collaborates within team and cross-functionally to achieve shared goals.
Ability to take accountability of responsibilities, commitments, and outcomes.
Proven ability to communicate clearly, effectively, professionally; adapting communication style based on audience.
Ability to take ownership of personal and professional growth; sets development goals, seeks stretch assignments, and applies new skills to enhance impact.
Demonstrated adaptability and willingness to take on new responsibilities.
Demonstrated ability to show resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges or changes.
Ability to plan, organize, and execute moderately complex initiatives from conception to completion
Intermediate computer and technology skills and knowledge, with the ability to navigate between multiple systems with ease.
Time Management skills and the ability to prioritize workload based on department and member needs.
Ability to complete tasks with accuracy and thoroughness.
Demonstrated reliability, integrity, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Requires face-to-face interaction and/or coordination of work with other employees and departments, and in-person interaction.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, PR or related field.
Experience in financial services, sales, or financial wellness outreach.
Spanish language proficiency.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and execution of regional business development and marketing strategies to drive membership and loan growth.
Partner with branch leadership to identify local market opportunities and implement targeted growth initiatives.
Expand and strengthen Select Employer Group (SEG) and Preferred Partner programs to increase member acquisition and engagement.
Develop scalable tools, playbooks, and training resources to enable consistent, high-impact marketing and business development opportunities across markets.
Lead marketing and business development initiatives tied to branch openings, mergers, and market expansions.
Partner with internal stakeholders to advance and sustain initiatives tied to the credit union’s low-income designation goals.
Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive community engagement strategy aligned with enterprise growth and brand objectives.
Identify, cultivate, and manage strategic partnerships that deliver mutual value and strengthen Affinity Plus’ presence in the community.
Oversee community engagement programs, sponsorships, and signature initiatives (e.g., Polar Plunge, Plus It Forward Day), ensuring alignment with brand and impact goals.
Collaborate with Marketing and Communications to amplify community impact, financial education, and partnership storytelling.
Expand access to financial wellness programs and resources through community channels and partnerships.
Provide strategic guidance and support to branch leaders in developing and executing localized engagement strategies.
Manage community partnership intake, evaluation, and decision-making processes to ensure alignment and impact.
Oversee planning, execution, and continuous improvement of community initiatives, events, and engagement programs.
Manage community engagement budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources and strong return on investment.
Coordinate organizational presence at key community events and ensure consistent brand representation.
Support employee volunteer programs and internal engagement initiatives that reinforce culture and community impact.
Build and maintain systems and processes that improve efficiency, scalability, and visibility of business development and engagement efforts.
Other duties as assigned.