Human Rights Director - City of Alexandria VA

THE POSITION
The City values employees who support the City Council’s priorities of equity, environmental justice, civility, The Director of the/ Office of Human Rights performs responsible management functions directing the Office’s activities of the City's Office of Human Rights. The incumbent is responsible for carrying out the policies of the Alexandria Human Rights Commission and performing the duties assigned by the Human Rights Chapter of the City Code. The employee The incumbent negotiates and performs duties under contracts and work sharing agreements with the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and other appropriate Federal or State agencies. The Director is responsible for receiving complaints from citizens or employees of the City and conducting investigations of alleged discriminatory practices in the areas of housing, employment, education, public accommodations, health and social services, credit and City contracts based on race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, age or disability. The employee also is responsible for conciliating any complaints of unlawful discrimination where there is probable cause to believe discrimination has occurred. The Director is responsible for managing and coordinating the activities and operation of the Office of Human Rights and for providing staff support to the Alexandria Human Rights Commission. The employee also works closely with the Deputy City Manager to assure compliance with the City's Affirmative Action Plan. Work is performed with considerable independence in accordance with established Federal, State, and City policies, procedures and practices, and with latitude for exercising independent judgment. The Director/Office of Human Rights works under the general direction of the Human Rights Commission, and receives general supervision from the Deputy City Manager. Supervision is provided to a small professional and secretarial staff

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Manages civil law enforcement agency, ensuring compliance with Federal, State and local anti-discrimination laws in the City
• Directs the work of Human Rights Investigators, Disability Resources Coordinator, law interns and administrative support staff
• Serves in quasi-judicial role, interpreting laws and issuing legal determinations in administrative cases
• Mediates, conciliates, negotiates and facilitates settlement of complaints
• Manages day-to-day operations of office, including budget, expenditures and revenue, grants, contracts, purchases, equipment, training, personnel matters, outreach and customer service
• Drafts legislative proposals and legislation in human rights and employment, edits resolutions, proclamations, articles and press releases
• Collaborates with other City departments, agencies and non-profits
• Serves on City Manager's Executive Leadership Team;
• Attends City functions
• Performs special assignments at the request of the City Manager in the areas of ethics, equity, professionalism, customer service, leadership and diversity/inclusiveness
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate for the Director of the Office of Human Rights will be a dynamic and experienced leader with a strong commitment to advancing equity and social justice. They will possess extensive knowledge of federal, state, and local antidiscrimination laws, combined with a proven track record in managing investigations and resolving conflicts related to civil rights issues. This candidate will demonstrate exceptional communication skills, enabling them to engage effectively with diverse communities, government officials, and stakeholders. A collaborative mindset, along with strategic thinking and the ability to navigate complex challenges, will be essential for fostering partnerships and implementing impactful policies. With a background in public administration or a related field, the ideal candidate will be adept at managing teams and budgets while driving initiatives that promote inclusivity and protect the rights of all citizens.

The City of Alexandria will give strong consideration to all qualified candidates who possess significant supervisory experience, a robust understanding of technology, and a demonstrated track record of success in advancing human rights initiatives.