OFFICER, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & DIVERSITY COMPLIANCE

POSITION GOAL

To lead and oversee economic inclusion activities for small and disadvantaged business enterprises by working with District departments, general counsel, business partners and other stakeholders in designing strategies and targeted solutions that expand opportunities and improve outcomes for underutilized vendors. Provide timely and compliant initiatives that meets both District and vendor needs in a cost-effective manner.

ESSENTIAL PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Direct staff as assigned in the performance of job duties. 
• Responsible for the strategic, budget, administrative and organization planning activities of the department, as well as preparing the Annual Report for the Supplier Diversity and Outreach Program (SDOP). 
• Develop overall department strategies by incorporating industry best practices and utilizing performance metrics. Implement a comprehensive SDOP Plan and proactively recruit and assist vendor business opportunities across various commodities. 
• Work with District leadership, community partners and/or stakeholders to remove obstacles and challenges that impede the effectiveness of policy implementation. 
• Resolve contract compliance issues, complaints and grievances utilizing sanctions and penalties as presented in policy. Work closely with general counsel when addressing contract compliance and vendor certification disputes. 
• Conduct data analysis and provide reports that assess the impact of remedies used to address disparity. 
• Lead the coordination and diversity of economic development opportunities for small, minority and women-owned business enterprises (S/M/WBE). 
• Develop, direct and administer all policy & procedures, systems, and programs of the SDOP. 
• Recommend and develop policy provisions to improve vendor outreach, advocacy and compliance functions. 
• Monitor legally defensible remedies that maximize opportunities for S/M/WBE to participate in the award of contracts. 
• Direct all phases of planning, organizing, and implementing improvements for S/M/WBE program. 
• Institute data governance by validating the sources and/or systems for data relative to percentages and dollars allocated to S/M/WBE across all commodities. Establish, monitor, and document goals and accomplishments of the SDOP. 
• Create, present and communicate reports that address minority business inclusion efforts to local businesses, organizations and agencies interested in the progress of the program. 
• Prepare and assist in the presentation of School Board Agenda Items related to pre-qualification and activities. 
• Network through seminars, trade fairs, conferences, minority/women organizations and community functions to extend outreach to minority businesses. 
• Maintain official records and documents, and ensure compliance with state and federal laws pertaining to minority and small business utilization. 
• Act as liaison between small businesses and prime contractors participating in matchmaking outreach events. 
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials. 
• Train and develop staff by providing coaching and mentoring. 
• Perform and promote all activities in compliance with the equal employment and non-discrimination policies of The School Board of Broward County, Florida.
• Participate in the training programs offered to enhance the individual skills and proficiency related to the job responsibilities. 
• Review current developments, literature and technical sources of information related to job responsibilities. 
• Ensure adherence to safety rules and procedures. 
• Follow federal and state laws, as well as School Board policies. 
• Perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor, or designee.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• An earned bachelor’s degree in business administration/management, procurement or related field from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of seven (7) years, within the last ten (10) years, of progressive experience in the field related to the title of the position.
• Experience as a business leader or director in a large complex organization with experience interacting with the senior leadership team and/or Board of Directors.
• Demonstrated knowledge of strategy development methods, software implementation/integration and/or quantitative analysis.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD) program, or attained within eighteen (18) months of employment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build strong business partnerships.
• Strong, creative problem-solving skills. Experience dealing with complex challenges.
• Ability to navigate politically sensitive situations achieving win-win outcomes.
• Computer skills as required for the position, including proficiency in utilizing Microsoft Office products.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• An earned master’s degree in business administration/management, economics, finance, or related field. 
• Combination of relevant experience and knowledge related to both procurement practices and local, state and federal small and disadvantage business enterprise programs. 
• Bilingual skills. 
• Knowledge of process improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of program/project management.

SIGNIFICANT CONTACTS-frequency, contact, purpose

Frequently works with District departments, general counsel, business partners and other stakeholders in raising awareness, providing strategies and creating opportunities for minority and small businesses.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Light work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force as frequently as needed to move objects

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Salary and benefits shall be paid consistent with the District's approved compensation plan. Length of the work year and hours of employment shall be those established by the School Board.

LINK TO JOB DESCRIPTION

To review the complete job description for this position access the following website: https://www.browardschools.com/Page/36072 and search by Job Code. The Job Code for this position is:  D-064