Deputy Policy Officer

THIS IS A NON-CIVIL SERVICE POSITION.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Under executive direction, performs work of considerable complexity in assisting the Mayor in the coordination of City government divisions/departments/agencies or special projects; performs a variety of administrative functions and special assignments. The Deputy Policy Officer is responsible for the coordination, development, administration, and integration of policies and practices across City of Knoxville departments in support of the City's priorities. The role includes advising on policy development and implementation, stakeholder engagement, communication with relevant audiences and includes supporting the work of various departments through grants, research, and analysis. The position is responsible for supporting the overall policy work of the City and specifically the Chief Policy Officer.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Serves as special assistant to the Mayor on various projects, committees, or functions that requires a broad knowledge of the

various functions, goals, and administrative procedures of the City; relays information to the Mayor on such projects.

• Serves as a representative of the Mayor on special projects and often chairs specific task forces and meetings; serves on

steering committees to assist in the establishment of the future direction of task force efforts.

• Support the administration, planning, and activities of the Policy Department.
• Participate in the development of policy project work plans; assign work activities, projects and programs; monitor workflow;

review and evaluate work products, methods and procedures.

• Work closely with the City leadership, advisory groups, and key stakeholders, on the development of policy initiatives,

practices, programs, and procedures.

• Research and gather objective evidence to support policymaking process for the benefit of the City of Knoxville, residents,

businesses and visitors.

• Initiate and manage policy endeavors including project scope, strategy, budget, and expectations.
• Serve as a convener and collaborator on behalf of the Policy department, the City of Knoxville and the Mayor.
• Coordinate support of policy-related public awareness and educational campaigns and stakeholder outreach.
• Confers with representatives of other organizations on behalf of the Mayor regarding policy initiatives.
• Compiles, analyzes and evaluates data for decision making, communications and support to departments throughout the City.
• Acts as liaison between the Mayor and city staff, citizens, or other organizations on specified projects or tasks.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of procedures and practices of City government and its operating agencies.
• Knowledge of general management theory and practices.
• Knowledge of the principles of public administration.
• Knowledge of research practices and techniques.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, and equipment.
• Knowledge of all applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
• Knowledge of methods of planning, researching, presenting recommendations and implementing desired changes.
• Skill in preparing written position papers, policy interpretations, and program reports.
• Skill in public relations, promotional activities, and public speaking.
• Skill in formulating ideas and presenting them in an effective manner.
• Ability to interpret, develop, and apply a broad understanding of rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Ability to evaluate situations and make decisions.
• Ability to express ideas clearly, concisely and convincingly--both orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and coordinate task force and committee organizations.
• Ability to organize and interpret technical data.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Ability to assist in the administration of complex programs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and relationships with the general public, elected officials, community

stakeholders and employees.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position consists of primarily medium work, requiring the incumbent to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds (or less) of force frequently, in order to lift/carry, push/pull, or otherwise move objects. A description of the specific physical requirements associated with this position is maintained on file in the Human Resources office for review upon request.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires training and/or experience, the use of logic and/or scientific thinking to define problems, collect information, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, recommend and appropriate actions and implement policies and regulations, and to manage and coordinate multiple programs or projects.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Graduation from a CHEA accredited four-year college or university.
• At least three years of progressively responsible experience in management and/or policy.
• Prior policy and program development experience.
• Demonstrated success with key stakeholder collaboration and development of partnerships

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Preference may be given to applicants with five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in policy, management,

government relations or related fields.

Note: Background checks will be conducted.

Drug testing may be required.

Knoxville, located on the Tennessee River in East Tennessee, is the county seat of Knox County and home to the University of Tennessee. Founded in the late 18th century and once the state's capital, the city grew as a major trade hub. Today, it features a lively downtown, historic landmarks like the Sunsphere, and easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains. Knoxville blends Appalachian culture, outdoor adventure, and a welcoming community spirit.