SVP, Community Relations

Empire State; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 175,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

Empire State Development seeks an SVP, Community Relations to lead the strategy and execution of community and government relations for major real estate initiatives in New York City and statewide. You will build strong relationships with elected officials, community boards, and advocacy groups to secure support and advance projects.

The role requires 8–10 years in related fields, exceptional communication skills, and proven managerial experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s preferred.
• 8–10 years in community relations and legislative/constituent affairs.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; knowledge of state/city government structures.

Responsibilities

• Oversee community and government relations for REDP real estate projects and manage external stakeholder engagement.
• Lead strategy development for statewide community relations and public engagement efforts.
• Manage a team of five staff and coordinate with ESD leadership to communicate project initiatives.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Written communication

Verbal communication

Public speaking

Team leadership

Problem solving

Government relations

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's preferred

Job description

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SVP, Community Relations

Professional New York City, New York, NY, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1706

Salary Range: $175,000.00 To $185,000.00 Annually

*This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.

*Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilitiesare encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

BASIC FUNCTION:

Oversee community and government relations for ESD’s real estate development projects, including signature projects such as Atlantic Yards, Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, and Downstate Correctional Facility. ESD seeks a highly motivated individual with excellent relationship building and communication skills to lead the team responsible for contact with external stakeholders, including elected officials and community organizations.

WORK PERFORMED:

• Work closely and collaboratively with REDP staff and ESD leadership to effectively promote all real estate initiatives to critical stakeholders to achieve desired outcomes.
• Develop and execute community relations strategy for economic development projects state-wide.
• Establish and maintain a strong working relationship with real estate, government, community boards, civic associations, advocacy organizations, business leaders, and other key stakeholders.
• Provide strategic leadership to the EVP of REDP and other ESD senior leadership on the effective communication about real estate projects and initiatives to ensure positive project development and maximum community support.
• Plan for, design, and execute public engagement processes including public workshops and other ways of connecting with stakeholders.
• Respond to a wide variety of inquiries from elected officials’ offices and assist with resolving constituent concerns.
• Manage a team of five community relations staff tasked with engaging elected officials, community organizations, and other relevant stakeholders about ESD real estate initiatives.
• Support the community relations staff in skill development and professional growth.
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills
• Ability to work under pressure against tight deadlines
• Ability to prioritize and manage an array of projects through to completion
• Ability to actively listen and synthesize the information; communicate effectively with all levels of staff and external contacts
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education Level required: Bachelor’s Degree in relevant area; Master’s preferred.

Experience required: 8-10 years relevant experience in community relations and legislative/ constituent affairs.

Skills required: Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills are essential. Knowledge of State and City government structure and processes. Experience mediating resolutions amongst groups with diverse interests. Must have managerial/supervisory experience. Demonstrated ability in problem solving.