Deputy Director of Outdoor Recreation - Public Service Executive I - Limited Period

Location: Augusta,Maine,United States

Opening Date: October 8, 2024

Closing Date:  October 23, 2024

Job Class Code: EA31
Grade: 31
Salary: $74,713.60 – $105,809.60/Annually
Position Number: 136000177

Limited Period: Anticipated End Date June 7, 2025

DESCRIPTION: This is a senior level position that provides professional managerial assistance to the Director in the development, execution, administration, and support of the direction of the Office of Outdoor Recreation as well as liaison work, including internal and external communication. The position applies extensive knowledge and experience in public policy, strategic planning, communications, stakeholder outreach, messaging and public relations. The position will contribute to the planning, implementation, management, analysis and evaluation of the Office’s initiatives, programs, and operations; coordination with other divisions or departments; management and supervision of consultants/contractors; professional and technical tasks relative to designated areas of responsibility; and related work as required.

The responsibilities of the Deputy Director include assisting the Director in representing the Office to staff and officials; establishing and maintaining relationships and communications with internal and external stakeholders; department senior management team, the public, media and others; working with private and public sector partners to grow Maine’s outdoor recreation economy; collaborating with a variety of public, private, and nonprofit organizations to advance access and opportunities; shaping outdoor recreation-related community and economic development strategies; coordinating marketing and promotion of Maine’s recreational opportunities; building awareness of recreation policy and management; developing and administering outdoor recreation-related grant programs; assisting businesses and organizations in connecting to resources including grant programs and philanthropic opportunities; among numerous other responsibilities.

REPRESENTATIVE TASKS:

• Assist the Director in the organization, supervision, and management of the Office of Outdoor Recreation.
• Recommend policies, initiatives, and/or programs to the Administrator to enhance outdoor recreational amenities and experiences in Maine, and help develop and implement such policies, initiatives, and/or programs.
• Ensure agency and stakeholder input is available to inform decision-making, policy and planning processes of the office.
• Support advocacy efforts and coordination with other applicable agencies and organizations for outdoor recreation policy, management, and promotion among state and federal agencies and local government and non-profit entities in Maine.
• Support coordination with the Office of Tourism, Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, Bureau of Parks & Lands, Department of Transportation and other state agency partners in the promotion, growth, and support of businesses, programs, and events related to outdoor recreation statewide.
• Support coordination with the Office of Business Development to attract and recruit outdoor recreation businesses to Maine and develop and support the growth of new and existing outdoor recreation-oriented businesses within Maine.
• Support coordination with state natural resource agencies and other organizations, associations, groups, and entities concerned with matters of outdoor recreation and/or conservation and natural resources regarding implementation or interpretation of policies regarding natural resources.
• Plans or directs the development of communication programs; establishes and maintains communication between the office, public and internal/external stakeholders.
• Studies the objectives, policies or needs of the office and the industry to develop public relations and information strategies that will build awareness of the office and the outdoor recreation economy.
• Promote public health and wellness by increasing outdoor recreation opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of public administration theories, principles, and practices.
• Knowledge of data analysis tools and presentation of data and trends.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and develop partnerships.
• Ability to work with diverse populations equitably and demonstrate superior interpersonal skills.
• Ability to be a flexible team player who thrives in environments requiring the ability to eff