What are the responsibilities and job description for the LEAD Project Director position at Pillsbury United Communities?

Organizational Overview

Pillsbury United Communities (PUC) is a pioneering community impact organization focused on breaking down systemic barriers and creating opportunities that foster equity and innovation. Let Everyone Advance With Dignity (LEAD) Minneapolis, a harm reduction diversion initiative, is an integral part of this mission, rethinking how communities approach public health, safety, and equity.

The LEAD program diverts individuals subject to arrest for low-level, nonviolent offenses rooted in unmet behavioral health needs toward community-based case management and long-term support. By bringing together law enforcement, civil rights advocates, service agencies, community stakeholders, and private sector partners as part of a public-private partnership, LEAD addresses systemic inequities, reduces over-policing of marginalized groups, and establishes a public health-centered approach to safety and justice

Originating in Seattle in 2011, LEAD has been recognized nationally and internationally for its effectiveness and impact, with over 60 sites across the country. LEAD Minneapolis launched in 2022, serving as a key driver for public health and safety transformation in the Twin Cities.

The Opportunity

As Director of LEAD Minneapolis, you will lead the program with vision, strategy, and operational excellence. You will drive partnerships, foster community relationships, and oversee the program's design and execution to ensure meaningful and sustainable outcomes.

This position calls for an individual who can navigate diverse stakeholder spaces, manage complex systems, and lead a program rooted in harm reduction principles and racial equity.

Primary Responsibilities

Leadership and Program Strategy

Provide strategic leadership to align LEAD Minneapolis with community needs, national best practices, and emerging trends in harm reduction and public health.
Oversee program design, implementation, and evaluation, ensuring adherence to LEAD's harm reduction and racial equity principles.
Develop and implement a long-term sustainability plan with an eye toward scaling the program to other parts of the city, expanding its impact and reach.
Serve as a thought leader and advocate for innovative public health approaches to community safety, representing LEAD locally and nationally.

Governance and Stakeholder Engagement

Convene and facilitate the Policy Coordinating Group (PCG), guiding its strategic vision and decision-making processes.

Build and maintain trusted relationships with community members, law enforcement, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other key stakeholders.

Navigate complex and diverse spaces with cultural competency, fostering collaboration, trust, and accountability.

Program Operations

Oversee day-to-day operations, including coordination between PCG, Operational Workgroups (OWGs), and case management teams.

Create and maintain systems to monitor program performance, analyze data trends, and report outcomes to stakeholders.

Design operational frameworks and processes that support growth and scalability, ensuring readiness for program expansion while maintaining adherence to LEAD's principles and protocols.

Actively support and guide the case management team to ensure participants receive holistic, person-centered care.

Community Outreach and Education

Partner with the Community Engagement Specialist to create strategies that educate and engage community members about LEAD's mission, methods, and outcomes.

Represent LEAD Minneapolis at community events, public forums, and media engagements to amplify its impact and build public support.

Fundraising and Budget Management

Collaborate with PUC's Advancement Team to identify and pursue grant opportunities to secure funding.

Advocate for sustained funding from local and state governments to expand and sustain LEAD's work.

Oversee the program's operational budget, including flexible funds for participant support, ensuring resources are managed efficiently and transparently.

Desired Attributes

Deep commitment to social and racial justice.

Strategic thinker with the ability to balance vision and execution.

Exceptional communicator and facilitator, adept at navigating complex conversations and building consensus.

Passion for creating innovative systems that challenge the status quo.

Required Skills and Experience

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; advanced degree preferred.

5 years of leadership experience in program development, implementation, or community-based initiatives.

Demonstrated understanding of harm reduction strategies and racial equity frameworks.

Proven ability to lead diverse teams and collaborate across sectors.

Strong project management skills, with the ability to balance multiple priorities effectively.

Experience in fundraising, grant writing, and financial management.

Familiarity with the Minneapolis Lake Street / 3rd Precinct community is highly desirable.

Benefits

PUC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance; employer-paid short-term and long-term disability; employer-paid life insurance; flexible spending accounts (FSA); retirement plans with employer match; and paid time off, including holidays.

PUC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

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