Community Relations Manager

Position Summary

The Community Relations Manager under the general supervision of the Cultural & Community Services Assistant Director, performs highly responsible professional, administrative, and supervisory work in planning, organizing, and managing the operations, programs, and services of assigned community facilities and the City’s Welcome Center.

Essential Duties

• Manage, supervise, and coordinate financial activities and operations of the Department including accounts payable and receivable, budget preparation, and divisional payroll.
• Manage, supervise, and coordinate procurement operations including developing specifications, sourcing, requisition processing and monitoring, inventory, quality assurance, RFQs, ITBs, RFPs, bidding process, and contract management including specifications, quotes/bids, requisitions, purchase orders, and compliance with City purchasing policies and applicable laws.
• Oversee preparation and maintenance of accounts payable/receivable records for programs. Prepare and check documents, records, and applications for accuracy and completeness.
• Oversee financials for the Cultural & Community Services Administrative division, including cost centers, program revenue, credit cards, petty cash, and accounts; ensure accurate coding, reconciliation, and adherence to City financial policies.
• Research and manage grant opportunities for the Department.
• Manage, supervise, and coordinate human resource functions such as recruitment, evaluations, employee setup, training, attendance monitoring, and educational reimbursement requests.
• Manage personnel files and coordinate human resource functions with employees.
• Coordinate employee training and development plans, identify required certifications and professional development opportunities, track completion, and support continuous learning and improvement.
• Plan and implement departmentwide employee appreciation initiatives (e.g., recognition events, awards, milestones) to support engagement, morale, and retention.
• Oversee management of Pelican Community Park, Welcome Center, Government Center, Intracoastal Sports Park customer service locations, and future locations.
• Maintain positive working relationships with employees, contractors, and the public; represent the City professionally.
• Participate in strategic policy formulation and implementation to improve department effectiveness.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of community services and/or parks and recreation planning.
• Knowledge of accounting procedures and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of state, county, and local law and City procurement policies and procedures.
• Ability to interpret and manage contracts.
• Knowledge of accounting software (e.g., MCSJ) and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).
• Principles of community relations, public engagement, partnership development, and sponsorship coordination.
• Ability to represent the City professionally and tactfully.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, vendors, management, and the public.
• Ability to research, analyze data, and develop reports.
• Ability to supervise professional and clerical staff.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in routine and non-routine situations.
• Knowledge of recreation, community services, facility management, and customer service.
• Knowledge of public administration, budgeting, financial management, procurement, and contract administration in local government.
• Knowledge of community outreach, marketing basics, and public communication.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, and regulations for public facilities, safety, accessibility, and records management.
• Skilled in supervising, training, motivating, and evaluating staff, interns, and volunteers.
• Knowledge of office practices and technology including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, recreation software, registration systems, and electronic platforms.
• Skilled in managing multiple projects, deadlines, and customer service issues.
• Ability to maintain high customer service standards including communication, empathy, issue resolution, and staff coaching.
• Skilled in public relations.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make recommendations.
• Ability to exercise discretion with confidential information.
• Ability to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Minimum Requirements

• Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public administration, recreation management, hospitality management, business administration or closely related field.
• Three (3) years of professional and progressively responsible supervisory experience in local government or recreation, or an equivalent combination of education, certification, training, and/or experience may be considered.
• Experience in visitor services, community affairs or hospitality are highly desirable.
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Pediatric First Aid certification within three (3) months of hire.
• Valid Florida Driver's License required.
• Ability to read, speak, and write in Spanish/Russian and/or other languages is preferred.
• Certified Parks & Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification preferred.
• The incumbent must maintain all required licenses and certifications throughout employment.
• Background screenings are conducted through the Clearinghouse @ https://info.flclearinghouse.com.