DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS & HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This position is responsible for managing the Bureau of Business and Housing Development, with responsibility for program administration, policy development, resource allocation, and staff supervision. The incumbent plays a key role in shaping housing, property, and neighborhood development initiatives; providing leadership to division managers; and serving as a liaison between the City, community groups, developers, and external partners. The employee works under the general direction of the Commissioner of NBD. Performs related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
‐ Manages the operation of the Bureau of Business and Housing Development, including establishing priorities and procedures, determining organization structure, and assigning and reviewing staff work;
‐ Provides direction to division managers regarding the acquisition, management, and disposition of properties and the administration of housing programs;
‐ Develops and implements programs and projects consistent with departmental goals and City policies;
‐ Recommends new and revised policies to address Bureau activities;
‐ Meets with community groups, neighborhood associations, and the general public to explain programs, discuss concerns, and resolve issues;
‐ Directs the selection, training, assignment, and evaluation of Bureau personnel;
‐ Prepares the Bureau's annual budget and assists the Commissioner with the preparation of the Department’s overall budget;
‐ Negotiates contracts for professional services and determines the appropriate level of financial assistance to support private development within the City;
‐ Participates in the development of the City's Consolidated Plan, including the programming of Federal resources;
‐ Assists the Commissioner in coordinating the Department of Neighborhood and Business Development’s Capital Improvement Program;
‐ Coordinates special projects at the direction of the Commissioner.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
‐ Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration, budgeting, and personnel management;
‐ Knowledge of housing, community development, or economic development programs;
‐ Knowledge of contract negotiation and administration;
‐ Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies governing housing and development programs;
‐ Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
‐ Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, staff, community groups, developers, and the public.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
All entry level KSAs, PLUS:
‐ Knowledge of City of Rochester and department policies, procedures, laws, and regulations;
‐ Knowledge of urban housing, property management, and community development practices;
‐ Skill in formulating policies and strategies to address housing, neighborhood revitalization, and economic development needs;
‐ Ability to plan, organize, and direct the work of a large bureau, including supervising managers and professional staff;
‐ Ability to manage complex budgets and allocate resources effectively;
‐ Ability to negotiate contracts, financial agreements, and development incentives;
‐ Ability to represent the City of Rochester at high-level meetings and public forums, and to build partnerships with diverse stakeholders.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
High School Diploma or equivalent, PLUS:

I. Master’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, Economics, or a closely related field AND three (3) years of experience (or its part-time equivalent) leading projects or teams in housing, economic development, community development, or a closely related field, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity;
OR
II. Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, Economics, or a closely related field AND five (5) years of experience (or its part-time equivalent) leading projects or teams in housing, economic development, community development, or a closely related field, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity;
OR
III. Associate’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, Economics, or a closely related field AND seven (7) years of experience (or its part-time equivalent) leading projects or teams in housing, economic development, community development, or a closely related field, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity;
OR
IV. Nine (9) years of experience (or its part-time equivalent) leading projects or teams in housing, economic development, community development, or a closely related field, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity.