Chief of External Affairs, Operations Manager I (NCS) - Department of Transportation

THIS IS A NON-CIVIL SERVICE POSITION

POSTING DATE: 3/4/2025

SALARY RANGE: $99,053.00 – $163,237.00 ANNUALLY

BACKGROUND CHECK

Eligible candidates under final consideration for appointment to positions identified as positions of trust will be required to complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint must be successfully completed.

PROBATION

All persons, including current City employees, selected for this position must complete a mandatory 6-month probation.

Summary Of Position

The Baltimore City Department of Transportation (DOT) is seeking a dynamic, experienced leader to serve as DOT’s Chief of External Affairs. DOT is responsible for the planning, design, building and maintenance of 2,000 miles of roadways; 7 miles of interstate highways; 298 bridges and culverts; sidewalks, curbing and gutters; 456 miles of alleys; 72,000 streetlights; 1,300 signalized intersections; and 250,000 traffic and informational signs within the City of Baltimore. DOT leadership coordinates regularly with the Maryland Department of Transportation on transit supportive infrastructure and services, and on state and federally funded roadway and bridge projects within the City of Baltimore.

The Operations Manager I – Chief of External Affairs encompass managerial work related to the administration of departmental policy and overseeing or coordinating agency operations. Employees engaged in overseeing or coordinating agency operations are responsible for community engagement, organizing, implementing, administering, and supervising the interpretation and application of agency policies, directives and procedures designed to accomplish the mission of the agency.

Essential Functions

The Chief of External Affairs will oversee the Government Relations Department and the Community Engagement Team, ensuring strategic alignment and collaboration strong alignment with the City of Baltimore’s and DOT’s mission, values, and strategic vision, as well as demonstrated success, professionalism, responsiveness, sound judgment, and flexibility working in a complex, fast-paced environment. The Chief of External Affairs will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive strategies to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, advocate for policy priorities, and facilitate meaningful community engagement to enhance the quality of life for all Baltimore residents.

Responsibilities

• Leadership & Strategy: Lead DOT’s Government Relations and Community Engagement teams to ensure coordinated outreach and advocacy efforts that align with the city’s overall vision and goals.
• Policy Advocacy: Develop and implement advocacy strategies at local, state, and federal levels to promote DOT’s legislative priorities and secure funding for key initiatives.
• Community Engagement: Oversee community engagement efforts to foster stronger relationships between DOT and Baltimore's diverse communities. Ensure that residents have a voice in decision-making processes.
• Stakeholder Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials on the local, state and federal level, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and other key stakeholders.
• Collaboration & Partnerships: Facilitate collaboration between DOT departments, City agencies, and community organizations to promote effective public service delivery.
• Crisis Communication: In coordination with DOT’s Chief of Communications, serve as a key point of contact for external communications during emergencies, ensuring accurate and timely dissemination of information to stakeholders and the public.
• Event & Outreach Coordination: Lead the planning and execution of public forums, town halls, and other outreach activities to keep the community informed and engaged in DOT initiatives, with external stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and the public.
  
  

Education And Experience Requirements

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, communications, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).

AND

EXPERIENCE: Have 10 years of progressive leadership experience in government relations, public affairs, or community engagement. Proven track record of successfully managing large teams and complex projects. Strong understanding of local, state, and federal government processes and legislative advocacy. Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.

OR

EQUIVALENCY NOTES: Have an equivalent combination or education and experience

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATES: Have a valid Maryland Class C Noncommercial driver's license or an equivalent driver's license and eligible to obtain a Baltimore City driver’s permit. PROVISIONAL DRIVER’S LICENSE ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE.

NOTE: YOU MUST UPLOAD A COPY OF YOUR VALID DRIVER’S LICENSE WITH APPLICATION AT TIME OF APPLYING.

Benefits

The City of Baltimore offers a generous and competitive benefits package. You can learn about our benefits here:

https://humanresources.baltimorecity.gov/hr-divisions/benefits

Baltimore City Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and we are committed to a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Baltimore prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, ancestry, creed, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, military service, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Applicants requiring accommodations during the hiring process should contact the Department of Human Resources directly. Requests for accommodations should not be attached to the application.

BALTIMORE CITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER