Planner 2 (Inclusion)

Overview

Reporting to the Program Manager, Social Planning, the Planner 2 (Inclusion) within the Community Social Development Department provides leadership and subject matter expertise across the organization regarding equity, inclusion and community belonging.

The position leads and supports initiatives that advance equity, inclusion and belonging with a broad range of community and organizational priorities, including supporting newcomers, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, women, racialized communities and others who may experience barriers to full participation. The Planner 2 is responsible for implementing the Council-adopted Cultural Harmony Plan and developing and advancing policies and initiatives that foster more inclusive and equitable communities. The position works collaboratively with City staff, residents, community organizations and government partners to identify emerging issues, understand diverse perspectives and experiences, and develop responsive approaches to community needs.

Other responsibilities include analyzing qualitative and quantitative data to identify inequities, barriers and emerging community needs, and inform policy, planning and program development. The position applies for and manages grants related to equity, inclusion and belonging, and prepares reports, memos, presentations to City Council and City departments.

Examples of key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Leads the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the Council-adopted Cultural Harmony Plan.
• Provides advice to City Council on matters related to equity, inclusion and community belonging.
• Advises City departments on the development and implementation of policies, strategies, programs and projects, and identifying opportunities to improve access, participation and outcomes for diverse communities.
• Acts as the Staff Liaison for the Council-appointed Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee.  
• Represents the City’s position on intergovernmental, community and external committees and networks, including the Richmond Local Immigration Partnership, Literacy Richmond, SOGI Advisory Committee and other forums addressing community inclusion.
• Engages with diverse and equity-deserving communities, including racialized, newcomer, 2SLGBTQIA+ and other historically underrepresented groups to understand community needs, identify systemic barriers and inform the development of responsive City policies, programs, services and strategies.
• Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with community organizations, service providers, government agencies and diverse community stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, identify emerging issues and connect communities with City services and resources.
• Conducts research and analysis of qualitative and quantitative information, identifies emerging social issues, community needs, inequities and systemic barriers, and develops evidence-informed recommendations and responses.
• Coordinates and supports the development and implementation of City initiatives and events that advance equity, inclusion and community belonging, including the Diversity Symposium and the Newcomers Guide.
• Prepares reports, briefing materials, presentations and memos to City Council, City staff and internal and external stakeholders, and prepares correspondence for a wide range of audiences.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging principles and frameworks, including anti-racism, anti-oppression and cultural competency, and their application in a municipal context.
• Considerable knowledge of the social issues, inequities and systemic barriers affecting individuals and communities in an urban setting, and approaches for identifying and addressing barriers to participation, access and belonging. 
• Considerable knowledge of research, analytical and evaluation methods used to identify community needs, assess social trends, evaluate initiatives and inform policy and program development.
• Ability to lead and coordinate complex projects and initiatives involving multiple stakeholders, competing priorities and diverse perspectives, with minimal supervision.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, briefing materials, presentations and recommendations for elected officials, City departments, government agencies and community organizations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective collaborative relationships with elected officials, government agencies, community organizations and residents using tact, diplomacy and sound judgment.
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly to a range of audiences.
• Ability to exercise considerable initiative, independent judgment and discretion in providing strategic advice, developing initiatives and resolving complex issues.
• Ability to use REDMS or a similar Records Management System.
• Ability to successfully pass a Police Information Check.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience advancing equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging; engaging and collaborating with diverse stakeholders; and leading project management and strategic planning initiatives.
• A Bachelor's Degree in Social Planning, Community Development, Sociology, Social Work or a related discipline.
• A Master's Degree in a related discipline is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel.

Working Conditions:

Duties are performed in an office environment. The Planner 2 (Inclusion) will be in contact with members of vulnerable populations with high needs, and may encounter upset or unpleasant individuals.