Director of Policy Analysis & Communications

Olmsted County•2117 Building - Olmsted County Campus, MN

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general direction, directs the development, implementation, and maintenance of county-wide internal and external communications and engagement, intergovernmental relations, data practices, policy oversight, and management analysis, including strategy, continuous improvement, and data management. Directs complex projects across county operations and directs the development and implementation of plans, programs, and policies. Develops and maintains a service-oriented approach and supports organizational and community quality initiatives. Leverages team members’ strengths, clarifies roles and responsibilities, develops employees, and supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace. This is a Rochester, Minnesota-based position and is not remote eligible at this time. Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States; Olmsted County does not sponsor applicants. International relocation or international remote working arrangements will not be considered. Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of the position.

Requirements

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business Administration, Public Administration, Political Science, Policy Analysis, Planning or Evaluation, or a related field, and four years of experience in a similar position, including three years in a leadership or supervisory role; OR a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields or a related field and six years of similar experience, including three years in a leadership or supervisory role.
Thorough knowledge of public-sector policy, analysis, and communication principles and practices.
Thorough knowledge of effective public relations and relationships with community groups and agencies, private businesses and firms, and other levels of government.
Knowledge of strategic planning, research, and evaluation principles and practices.
Knowledge of business process improvement and performance measurement theories and principles.
Knowledge of governmental functions and the organizational and legislative structure affecting county government.
Knowledge of management and budgeting practices and procedures.
Skill in managing complex planning and evaluation projects, such as major issue reports, program evaluations, or process reengineering studies.
Effective verbal and written communication skills to convey complex issues clearly to decision-makers.
Skill in using computers and technology and in problem solving.
Ability to work independently to complete complex projects and effectively lead multidisciplinary planning and evaluation teams.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to mentor, coach, and supervise others.
Regular and reliable attendance.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States; the County does not sponsor applicants.
A valid driver’s license and no major traffic violations in the last three years are required for individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment.

Responsibilities

Lead individuals and teams, build and maintain engagement, and foster a culture of growth so employees can reach their full potential.
Recommend hiring, promotions, and assignments; provide regular and timely feedback; and manage employee performance, documentation, and disciplinary actions.
Provide leadership to teams and ensure team performance aligns with department strategic goals.
Oversee the county-wide strategic plan, including activities, outcomes, and results.
Oversee development of the county’s federal and state legislative agenda and other governmental relations.
Lead development and implementation of county public communications, including website, social media, media relations, supporting methods and teams, and employee communications.
Oversee data practices policies and practices, including fulfillment of public data requests, data retention schedules, and the countywide policy committee.
Oversee county community engagement through centralized processes and collaborate with departments on external and internal engagement.
Advise elected officials, directors, managers, supervisors, and employees on policy, analysis, and communication issues.
Conduct research and present recommendations to the County Board of Commissioners, County Administrator, and Department Directors.
Perform related duties as assigned.