Strategy and Communications Manager

Current employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity. Pay Range: $109,557.81 - $164,337.02 Annual Department: Department of County Human Services (DCHS) Job Type: Regular Non-Represented Exemption Status: United States of America (Exempt) Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified): July 28, 2026 The Opportunity: Please note: This recruitment will remain open until the closing date (July 28th, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST) or until 150 applications are received - whichever event occurs first. Please apply without delay! Overview  Multnomah County voters chose to invest in high-quality, culturally affirming, joyous early learning opportunities for all 3 and 4 year-old children. This investment will transform educational experiences for young children and their families and we want you to help make it a success!  As the Strategy and Communications Manager of the Preschool & Early Learning Division in the Department of County Human Services (DCHS) , you will develop and lead the long-term strategy, projections, communications, and evaluation efforts for a highly visible preschool initiative. You will lead the evaluation and communications teams and work closely with County, Department, and Division  Leadership to strengthen the long-term assumptions and plan for the successful implementation of Preschool for All. This position will ensure that racial equity is centered in strategic planning, setting program priorities, developing quality improvement recommendations, and program implementation.  Primary responsibilities include:  Develop and implement program and strategic planning, including anticipating barriers to universal preschool access and how to address identified challenges Ensure that racial equity is centered in strategic planning, setting program priorities, developing quality improvement recommendations, and allocating resources.  Ensure that implementation efforts are in compliance with the Preschool for All ballot measure and alignment with the Preschool for All Plan  Track and refine long-term cost modeling & budget strategy assumptions to maintain the successful implementation of Preschool for All Lead the Evaluation and Communications teams   Represent the Preschool & Early Learning Division at the leadership level and provide expert guidance Key Knowledge & Experience:  Advanced knowledge and understanding of the issues surrounding equity, inclusion, implicit bias, institutional racism, and other forms of systemic oppression. Knowledge and understanding of cultures, customs and social experiences of historically excluded communities experiencing barriers to opportunity, especially for Black and Indigenous child care providers and families, and Families and Providers of Color. Experience leading or directing communication initiatives or teams Experience in leading complex projects, programs, and/or initiatives Experience and advanced knowledge in leading and implementing strategic planning, including program assumptions and modeling Experience with complex budget planning Strong understanding of risk assessment and change management procedures Experience using a participatory management style to promote teamwork and a "learning" work environment for employees Experience in supervising and leading diverse teams  Excellent communication skills with the ability to effectively convey information to both technical and non-technical audiences Experience working with diverse communities. Ability to easily adapt to changing priorities and to demonstrate close attention to details. The eligible list created from this recruitment may be used to fill future regular, limited duration, full or part-time, temporary, or on-call positions. To Qualify  We will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific about how your background is relevant. For details about how we typically screen applications, review our overview of the selection process page.  Minimum Qualifications/Transferable Skills:  Ability to promote a culture of respect, inclusiveness, and appreciation of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and values  Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study, or equivalent education and/or practical experience One (1) year of communications experience in one or more of the following areas: communications, public relations, web communications/design, news reporting, marketing, or public information Five (5) + years of increasingly responsible experience including developing, leading, and implementing strategic planning, communication or program evaluation Three (3) years of supervision experience  Must pass a criminal background check *Transferable Skills:   Your transferable skills are any skills you have gained through education, work experience (including the military) or life experiences that are relevant for this position. Be sure to describe any transferable skills on your application and clearly explain how they apply to this position.  Equity note: Research suggests that women and Black, Indigenous, and other persons of color are less likely than men and white job-seekers to apply for positions unless they are confident they meet 100% of the listed qualifications. We strongly encourage all interested individuals to apply, and allow us to evaluate the knowledge, skills and abilities that you demonstrate, using an intentional equity lens. Screening and Evaluation    Required Application Packet: Your completed application must include all  of the following items to be considered :    1) A completed online application and resume .  2) A cover letter. Please attach a cover letter as a separate document.  3) In your cover letter:  Please describe how you meet the minimum