JOB OPPORTUNITY - Outreach & Community Engagement Director

Here LA is looking for a creative outreach leader to join our team!

Location: Los Angeles, CA (remote & in-person)

Company Overview:

Here LA is an interdisciplinary design practice that improves the public realm.  We are dedicated to solving complex urban challenges through creative processes and design-thinking that build on the stories of a place. We believe that good design creates happier people, stronger interactions and relationships, and a healthier community.  Our work ranges from the conceptual design of streets, public spaces, and parks, to strategic planning relating to growth and change, mobility, and sustainability.  Many Here LA projects fold in aspects of tactical urbanism, creative arts-based community engagement, and visual communication.  Our team of designers may include urban designers, urban planners, outreach and engagement specialists, landscape architects, architects, and graphic designers.

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced creative Outreach Director to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, managing, and implementing outreach and community engagement activities related to urban design and urban planning projects for our firm. Beyond project management and oversight, the Director will exhibit firm-wide leadership, establishing internal initiatives, carrying out strategic decision making, departmental direction, seeking Quality Assurance, and leading business development efforts, including, marketing, project scoping, and costing for outreach/engagement-related projects.  The Director should have a deep understanding of the company's industry, market dynamics, and competitive landscape from which she or he makes informed decisions and capitalizes on opportunities.

Responsibilities - Leadership and Growth:

• Oversee the operations of and grow Here LA’s creative outreach wing.

• Lead and oversee Strategic Planning efforts related to departmental direction to drive organizational success and participate in firm-wide Strategic Planning.

• Think strategically, anticipate future trends, and develop long-term plans to ensure the company's competitiveness and growth.

• Exhibit a solid grasp of financial concepts and be able to effectively manage budgets, allocate resources, and drive financial performance.

• Submit proposals, secure contracts, and find/follow marketing leads for creative outreach projects.

• Lead presentations, talks, and market Here LA in the region (and nationally).

• Manage and maintain relationships with clients, community groups, advocacy organizations, and other stakeholders.

Responsibilities - Management:

• Develop, implement, and facilitate creative outreach and community engagement plans for transportation planning and urban design projects.

• Design artful, creative, tactical pop-ups, public meetings, workshops, and open houses, with support from Here LA staff.

• Prepare and deliver presentations to community groups, advocacy organizations, and other stakeholders.

• Develop and implement effective communication strategies to keep stakeholders informed about project progress and next steps.

• Collect, analyze, and summarize feedback from community engagement activities to inform project decisions and improve processes.

• Maintain high ethical standards and integrity to build trust with stakeholders, uphold the company's reputation, and ensure long-term sustainability.

Qualifications & Details:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in public policy, communications, urban planning, transportation planning, or a related field.

• A minimum of 10+ years of relevant experience.

• Knowledge of urban planning and transportation planning practices, particularly related to active transportation.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and connect with a wide range of stakeholders.

• Strong organizational and leadership skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Proficiency in Spanish is preferred, but not required.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

• Knowledge of Adobe software (InDesign & Illustrator) is preferred, but not required.

• This position is At-Will and Exempt. 

We offer a dynamic and supportive work environment, competitive compensation and benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development.  If you are passionate about community engagement and are seeking an exciting opportunity to lead a forward-thinking team and make a difference in your community, we encourage you to apply.

To Apply:

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and portfolio (if applicable) to hello@here.la. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please.

Here LA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment.