Deputy Chief of Staff

Introduction Are you interested in public service and community development? The City of New Haven is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated individual to join the Mayor's Office as the Deputy Chief of Staff. This key position involves advancing the policy interests of City departments and agencies, supporting the Chief of Staff and Mayor, and serving the residents of New Haven. The Deputy Chief of Staff plays a crucial role in providing project management, programmatic support, and expert assistance on a variety of complex issues. Reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, this position requires exceptional organizational skills, a mission‑driven mindset, and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively. Primary Functions The Deputy Chief of Staff is responsible for advancing the policy interests of City departments and agencies, as well as the residents of New Haven. The role’s primary duties include providing project management, programmatic support, and other tasks to support the Chief of Staff and Mayor. Typical Duties And Responsibilities Provides expert professional assistance and support to the Chief of Staff and the Mayor on a wide range of highly complex topics. Works with the Chief of Staff to assist City Departments with making city services more effective, equitable, and efficient. Prioritizes and manages multiple projects simultaneously and follows up on time‑critical events. Attends and participates in a variety of governmental and other meetings regarding neighborhood, business and related community and organizational meetings. Develops and presents reports and information regarding matters and issues. Serves as mayor’s liaison to various groups and institutions including arts, cultural, international and special interest groups, associations and/or institutions; attends meetings and events as the Mayor’s representative. Collaborates with the Chief of Staff and other stakeholders to develop strategic plans and policies that align with the Mayor’s vision and goals for the city. This may include conducting research, gathering data, and analyzing trends to inform decision‑making processes. Handles special assignments for Coordinators, Chief of Staff, and Mayor. Facilitates communication and coordination between different city departments and agencies to ensure seamless implementation of initiatives and projects. Acts as a liaison to promote cross‑departmental collaboration and efficiency. May conduct policy analysis and research on emerging issues affecting the city, making recommendations for policy improvements or changes; then provides support in drafting legislation, ordinances, and resolutions, and coordinating legislative initiatives with elected officials and legislative bodies. Performs related work as required. Education, Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Business Administration, or a related field is beneficial. Minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible experience in municipal government, public administration, or a closely related field. Experience in a leadership or managerial role is advantageous. PMI Certifications desirable. Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities Considerable knowledge of municipal government organization, ordinances, rules, policies, and procedures relating to the administration of the Mayor’s office. Familiarity with legislative methods, techniques, and procedures of the Board of Alders and the Connecticut General Assembly. Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and court decisions relevant to assigned responsibilities. Sound understanding of principles and practices of public administration, including budgeting, contracting, reporting, and maintenance of public records. Strong understanding of advanced administrative principles, including goal setting, program development, and implementation. Proven track record in successful project management, delivering on time and within budget. Demonstrated project management skills, organizational capabilities, and the ability to work well under pressure while handling multiple projects simultaneously. Skill in planning, organizing, and overseeing the implementation of complex projects with multiple stakeholders. Proficiency in research methods and analysis techniques. Skill in exercising sound, expert independent judgment, and seasoned political acumen within general policy guidelines. Mastery of principles and practices of effective business communications and correct English usage. Must possess superior oral and written communication skills, to prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive correspondence, reports, studies, and other written materials, using current technologies. Ability to present proposals and recommendations clearly, logically, and persuasively in public meetings. Ability to plan and assist the activities of assigned staff in the Mayor’s office, including the application of sound, expert knowledge, research, and analysis of Citywide issues. Demonstrated understanding of principles and practices of effective supervision. Ability to define complex issues, perform difficult and complex analyses and research, evaluate alternatives, and develop sound conclusions and recommendations. Aptitude in interpreting and applying City, state and federal policy, laws, and regulations applicable to areas of responsibility. Skill in evaluating work processes, recommending, and implementing improvements, and exercising sound judgement. Capacity to establish and maintain highly effective working relationships with elected officials, all levels of City management, other governmental officials, business and community leaders, community agencies, employees, the public, and other stakeholders. Willingness and ability to represent the City and Mayor’s office on various platforms effectively on a range of issues. Must maintain sensitive and confidential information; will exercise tact and diplomacy in dealing with highly sensitive, complex, and confidential issues and situations with broad effects on City policies and issues. Ability to work with diverse populations and an understanding of cultural nuances in providing effective services. Proficient in managing constituent service standards, policies, procedures, and etiquette. Necessary Special Requirements Ability to work flexible hours, occasional evenings, and weekends may be required to support staff with meetings, events, and other assignments. Salary, Bargaining Unit & Terms of Employment This is a “General Fund” non‑tested position. It is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of the Mayor. Hired into this class shall not be covered by the City pension but shall continue to be covered by Social Security; additionally, the employee will contribute 7.5% of base pay into a defined contribution plan. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre‑employment background check, (2) a pre‑employment physical examination, including pre‑employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy, and (3) a 90‑day probationary period. Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre‑employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana. #J-18808-Ljbffr