Reporting directly to the Director of Public Services, the Chief of Staff (COS) serves as an executive level position responsible for coordinating the overall administrative and operational functions of the Public Services Department across divisions and units. This role provides strategic and complex administrative support to the Director and assists with department wide initiatives, facilitates the execution of the key priorities, carries out special projects, manages critical department operations, and supports the implementation of strategic planning as assigned. This position ensures the smooth integration of day-to-day activities and long-term objectives

(Any one position may not require all of the listed KSAs nor do the listed examples include all the KSAs which may be required.)

Knowledge of:

Public Services operations across divisions.

Knowledge of the DPS culture and works to establish practices to preserve and promote the positive aspects of the organization and its values.

Public administration principles and processes.

Principles of strategic planning, risk management, and project management within a public utility.

Research methods; report preparation techniques applicable to operations.

Communication strategies and techniques for water utility organizations and stakeholders.

Budgeting, procurement, and grant processes.

City of Cincinnati internal operations, including interactions with City Council but not limited to those administered by the Human Resources Department, Civil Service Commission, Office of Procurement, Finance Department, and Office of Budget and Evaluation.

Skill to:

Operate appropriate computer equipment; use properly all related hardware and software.

Operate assigned vehicle in the course of duty.

Develop and execute strategic initiatives that align with department mission and objectives.

Analyze and present complex data, especially related to department performance metrics, budget management, and resource allocation.

Coordinate interdepartmental projects.

Facilitate communications between the Director and other departmental leaders, and external stakeholders.

Identify, apply for, and manage grant-funded projects that support departmental growth and community safety programs.

Build partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to leverage funding and enhance department initiatives.

Ability to:

Promote and maintain high ethical standards and integrity throughout the department.

Effectively supervise and mentor lower-level staff within the Department.

Maintain effective working relationships with Department personnel, City Departments, City Administration, City Council and community stakeholders. Manage department-specific projects, ensuring timely completion and alignment with strategic goals. Implement and maintain positive employee relations.

Analyze and manage effective EEO/AA programs. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Prepare clear and concise reports; prepare correspondence as assigned.

Implement and manage performance evaluation systems to measure departmental productivity and effectiveness.

Provide consultation on departmental operations, assess project feasibility, and ensure effective risk management practices.

Prepare, monitor, and effectuate a budget.

A bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, or a relevant operational field is required. Five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in business management at a supervisory level, with a primary focus on strategic human resource management, project management, or change management, is required. A Master’s degree in the aforementioned or operational areas is strongly preferred.

Experience in collaborating and supporting operations across divisions within a public sector department, and an understanding of municipal operations and administrative procedures, practices and HR policies and procedures is preferred.

Environmental Conditions:

Predominately indoor environments; exposure to computer screens; attendance at outdoor functions may be required.

Physical Conditions:

Interact regularly with city administration, particularly key assistant city managers to report on performance metrics and share progress of ongoing improvements for the department.

Understand the DPS climate assessments, prioritize improvement efforts, and lead teams and sections to make and track improvements.

The COS will play a key role in tracking and explaining performance metrics and agreements with OPDA and city leaders. The COS will collaborate with the DPS Director and Deputy Directors to coordinate interdepartmental initiatives, manage resources, establish fair and consistent work practices, and ensure efficient operation of the department.

COS will establish training goals and improvement strategies for employees and guide the training supervisor and managers to reach departmental development goals.

Collaborate with superintendents to modernize policies and procedures and establish annual awards and recognition programs.

The COS will work closely with the DPS director to understand strategic initiatives and ensure employees have all that is needed to reach departmental goals (training, PPE, uniforms, etc.)

Collaborate with Superintendents on recruitment, retention, and development.

Attend high-level meetings with the DPS Director, providing necessary follow-up and support for DPS projects, special initiatives, and long-term planning and improvement efforts.

The DPS COS will exercise authority to guide some work of deputy directors, division managers and superintendents, procurement staff, administrative staff, support personnel and other designated teams on behalf of the director. This includes leading department-wide initiatives, special projects, and cross-functional efforts related to operational efficiencies and personnel matters.

Coordinate meetings requested by the Director.

Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals.

Research, analyze, and evaluate new service delivery methods and techniques.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Evaluate funding needs within the DPS and develop strategies to address them through grants and other resources.

Draft compelling grant proposals and funding requests that align with departmental objectives and comply with funding agency requirements.

Manage assigned projects; manage the activities of assigned community groups.

Manage people and resources.