Director, Community Engagement

How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Summary

The University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit (UMCI) will be a world-class research, education, and entrepreneurship center designed to advance innovation and talent-focused community development to foster city, region, and statewide job creation and inclusive economic growth. Anchored by a world-class research and education center, and operating as a direct extension of the university's Ann Arbor campus. The UMCI will operate on a compelling mixed model approach, including master's degrees and workforce development programs. We will bring U-M's focus on high-tech research, education, and innovation to downtown Detroit.

You will lead the development of ongoing relationships and partnerships that are essential to the success of UMCI programs. You will be responsible for facilitating partnerships, developing and leading stakeholder advisory groups, leading cross-sector collaborations and system building that will benefit the UMCI and U-M/Detroit initiatives broadly, and fostering an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship within the community. Independence, deep knowledge of the city, and an ability to work with a very broad range of constituents and stakeholders are extremely important. This role will report to the director of the UMCI.

The position is designed as a blend of remote and on-site responsibilities, requiring the presence of individuals for on-site engagement and collaboration with Detroit's community leaders and organizations a few days a week. There is also an expectation that candidates must live within a reasonable commuting distance from Detroit.

Full job description - Director, Community Engagement

Why Work at Michigan?

Benefits at the University of Michigan

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Responsibilities*

Community Outreach & Engagement (100%)

• Be the bridge between the center and the community
• Collaborate with public-facing units within the university that have established relationships with Detroit communities (such as Government Relations, the Center for Educational Outreach, the Detroit Center, academic units, and many others)
• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, local businesses, residents, and other team members.
• Organize and participate in community events, workshops, and meetings to promote the center's initiatives.
• Be the primary contact for community inquiries and collaborations.
• Collaborate with the UMCI academic program team and local industries and organizations to identify skills gaps and training needs
• Develop a comprehensive community engagement plan that aligns with UMCI's goals. Help develop and implement community engagement strategies for UMCI-based programs.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of community programs and initiatives.
• Represent the innovation center at local and regional forums
• Advocate for the needs and interests of the community in university-led initiatives operating within UMCI
• Promote diversity and understanding within the organization and in its interactions with the community.
• Connect the community with resources and services provided by our organization.
• Educate the community about our role, goals, and services

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in community engagement, cross-sector collaboration, community development, or related areas
• Demonstrated experience building relationships and nurturing connections with a broad range of communities within Detroit.
• Experience communicating and engaging with diverse audiences
• Demonstrated experience facilitating forums, workshops, advisory groups, and similar collaborative activities
• Demonstrated knowledge of diversity, equity, and inclusion topics and training.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.