The Downtown Committee of Syracuse is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is the revitalization and continued vibrancy of Downtown Syracuse.
The Placemaking Programs Manager plays a key role in the successful execution of placemaking initiatives and is housed within the organization’s Economic Development team, although works across the organization with multiple departments. The role requires a professional who will be mission-driven, organized, detail-oriented, collaborative, and able to successfully and effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously, while working independently or with a variety of stakeholders to bring projects to fruition. The Placemaking Programs Manager will help develop, guide and implement projects and programs that support Downtown Syracuse as a vibrant and attractive urban center.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Placemaking Strategy & Implementation (25%)
- Work with stakeholders to conceive, develop, support and implement placemaking interventions that activate public spaces, enhance community identity, and support long-term revitalization.
- Plan and execute programs that improve the user experience, promote vibrancy, and foster a strong sense of place in Downtown Syracuse.
- Enhance the connectivity between Downtown neighborhoods and other public spaces to create a more cohesive Downtown Syracuse.
Grant & Project Administration (30%)
- Manage administrative aspects of awarded grants, such as developing project budgets, tracking and reporting grant finances, working with stakeholders, ensuring project outcomes.
- Coordinate with applicable city and community partners to ensure timely delivery and alignment with project goals.
Program & Public Realm Management (30%)
- Manage budgets and purchase of street furnishings, beautification and public realm efforts, seasonal décor contracts/program
- Procure materials and coordinate with local contractors, vendors, and stakeholders to ensure high-quality implementation.
Funding Development & Resource Identification (10%)
- Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and in-kind partnerships, to support placemaking efforts, as needed.
Program Promotion & Storytelling (5%)
- Contribute to the development of marketing content and program materials that highlight placemaking work and engage the community.
- Support efforts to measure, evaluate, and communicate project outcomes.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor Degree in urban planning, urban design, landscape architecture, transportation planning, or similar
- Minimum 4+ years experience with grant writing, management, project management and administration is required, working in a related field
- Experience collaborating with and managing a diverse mix of stakeholders to deliver programs/projects
- Experience activating spaces
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
- Proficient in working with people using proactive communication to achieve results
- Detail-oriented, organized, persevering, and skilled problem solver
- Able to handle multiple priorities and demonstrate high productivity with minimal oversight, while working collaboratively with staff and stakeholders
- Ability to take initiative and meet goals and objectives.
- A consummate professional with a commitment to community partnerships and building a vibrant downtown core
- Clear written, graphic, and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
Salary and Benefits
- $65,000 – $70,000; Salary is commensurate with experience.
- Benefits include health and dental insurance, 401k plan, paid time off, parking/transportation subsidy.
Please send cover letter, resume, and three (3) relevant to this position work samples to the attention of Merike Treier, c/o Kristine Sherlock at ksherlock@downtownsyracuse.com