VP Strategic Engagement and Community Impact

DETROIT WAYNE Integrated HEALTH Network•Detroit, MI

About The Position

The Vice President of Strategic Engagement and Community Impact is a pivotal leadership role responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating comprehensive strategies that advance the organization’s mission through authentic community engagement, robust partnership development, and measurable social impact. This position serves as the primary architect and steward of relationships with diverse stakeholders-including residents, nonprofit partners, government agencies, and funders, ensuring that organizational initiatives are community-informed, data-driven, and aligned with principles of equity and inclusion. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (or designee) the Vice President of Strategic Engagement and Community Impact will lead cross-functional teams, oversee resource development efforts and represent the organization in advocacy, policy, and public forums. The role requires a blend of strategic vision, operational acumen, and a deep commitment to amplifying community voice and fostering sustainable, systemic change.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., public administration, social work, nonprofit management, communications, urban planning, or related discipline)
Minimum of 5 years’ progressive experience in community engagement, partnership development, program management, or related roles
At least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership capacity
Demonstrated success in designing and implementing community engagement strategies that drive measurable impact and foster authentic relationships.
Strong analytical, evaluation, and data management skills, including experience with impact measurement, reporting, and continuous improvement frameworks.
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences, build consensus, and navigate complex stakeholder dynamics.
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with demonstrated ability to work effectively across cultures, identities, and lived experiences.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally as needed
Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends to support community events.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred
Experience in grant writing oversight, fundraising, and resource development, including successful track record of securing and managing grants from public and private funders, preferred.

Responsibilities

Design and execute multi-faceted community engagement strategies that foster trust, transparency, and reciprocal relationships with residents, grassroots leaders, and local organizations.
Conduct stakeholder mapping and analysis to identify key individuals, groups, and institutions influencing or impacted by organizational initiatives; ensure inclusive representation, especially of historically marginalized populations.
Represent the organization at community events, public meetings, and coalitions to promote DWIHN mission alignment, build visibility, and cultivate new partnerships.
Identify, initiate, and nurture strategic partnerships with nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies, faith-based groups, and local businesses to expand program reach and impact throughout Metro Detroit and surrounding communities.
Negotiate and formalize partnership agreements, and collaborative work plans that clarify roles, responsibilities, and shared outcomes.
Serve as the primary liaison to external partners, funders, and coalitions, ensuring alignment of goals, transparent communication, and mutual accountability.
Facilitate cross-sector initiatives that address complex community challenges (e.g., workforce development, health equity, youth empowerment) through collective action.
Lead the co-design and continuous improvement of community-facing programs, ensuring they are evidence-based, culturally relevant, and aligned with community-identified priorities.
Develop and implement robust evaluation frameworks (including KPIs and qualitative/quantitative metrics) to assess program effectiveness, community impact, and progress toward strategic goals.
Analyze and report on engagement data, community feedback, and impact outcomes to inform decision-making, drive accountability, and communicate results to stakeholders.
Integrate continuous learning and adaptive management practices, using data and community insights to refine strategies and maximize impact.
Lead or support the development and submission of grant proposals, funding requests, and sponsorship packages to secure resources for community engagement and impact initiatives.
Cultivate and steward relationships with funders, donors, and philanthropic partners, ensuring timely reporting, compliance, and recognition.
Collaborate with finance and program teams to develop budgets, track expenditures, and ensure alignment of resources with strategic priorities.
Monitor and analyze local, state, and federal policy developments relevant to DWIHN’s mission and community priorities.
Develop and implement advocacy strategies to advance equitable policies, mobilize community voice, and influence decision-makers.
Represent DWIHN in policy forums, legislative hearings, and advocacy coalitions, serving as a credible spokesperson and thought leader.
Prepare policy briefs, public statements, and testimony in collaboration with leadership and communications teams.
Ensure all engagement activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies, including data privacy, accessibility, and nondiscrimination.
Develop and implement risk management protocols for events, outreach, and partnership activities.
Maintain accurate records and documentation for audits, reporting, and continuous improvement.
Map and maintain an up-to-date inventory of local stakeholders, resources, and community assets.
Engage with local coalitions, advisory boards, and community organizations to ensure organizational initiatives are contextually relevant and responsive.