Director of Urban Affairs

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An incumbent in this position is appointed by, and serves under the general supervision of, the Commissioner of Administration, Finance, Policy, and Urban Affairs. Working in coordination with the Commissioner and representatives from the Mayor’s Office, the incumbent formulates and conducts special studies on departmental operations, functions, and methodologies; makes recommendations for improved efficiency and effectiveness; and assists in developing new policies and initiatives to advance city administration.

The Director is appointed by the Commissioner and serves at the pleasure of the Commissioner.

Typical Work Activities

• Initiates, develops, and coordinates applications to obtain additional resources for the efficient and economical delivery of government services.

• Researches and identifies grant opportunities from public and private sources.

• Prepares periodic reports on the status of grants across city departments and divisions.

• Reviews departmental operations in conjunction with the Commissioner to identify services and procedures that can be improved through analysis and evaluation.

• Prepares reports summarizing findings and recommendations for process or service improvements.

• Conducts research to identify best practices, programs, and projects from other municipalities that could enhance city services; distributes findings to relevant departments.

• Performs research on special projects aimed at improving administrative efficiency and service delivery.

• Prepares an annual report identifying opportunities for improvement and assessing progress toward previously identified goals.

• Performs related duties as required by the Commissioner or the Mayor.

Full Performance Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public and city administration.

• Thorough knowledge of the geographic, social, and economic structure of the City of Buffalo.

• Thorough knowledge of economic principles related to regional business and industry.

• Working knowledge of state and federal funding and grant application procedures.

• Working knowledge of research methods and techniques.

• Ability to analyze, interpret, and synthesize complex written materials.

• Ability to prepare clear, concise, and well-documented written reports and program materials.

• Integrity, tact, initiative, and resourcefulness.

• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Minimum Qualifications

Five (5) years of responsible experience in public administration, intergovernmental or intra-governmental policy and operations, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity, or an equivalent combination of training and experience sufficient to demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of the position.

Salary

$124,676