Supports United Way Suncoast strategic direction and Community Impact Model to include an emphasis on programs and initiatives that assist adults in achieving long-term financial stability by developing the skills and opportunities to obtain family-sustaining employment and increase household incomes. Responsible for the execution of the Financial Stability focus area. The Financial Stability Initiatives Specialist must be customer and partner-focused, data-driven, innovative, and results oriented. This position will work closely with a variety of internal and external partners to implement strategies across a range of audiences.
This exempt level position will be physically located in the Sarasota office with occasional visits to the other counties in United Way Suncoast’s region. The position will report to the Senior Manager of Financial Stability Initiatives for day-to-day planning and programming and the Sarasota Area President to update on work done in Sarasota and DeSoto.
- Works with United Way Suncoast staff to implement and manage high-quality programs that meet community level outcomes around Financial Stability initiatives with priority towards supporting the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in the Sarasota/DeSoto area.
- Works with United Way Suncoast staff to support and manage other Financial Stability programming including strategies on increasing usage of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), Individual Development Accounts (IDAs), banking services for unbanked and underbanked individuals, and other Financial Education, Workforce Development, or Coaching efforts.
- Works with Senior Manager, Financial Stability Initiatives to implement key priorities for VITA program; serves as coordinator for logistics and volunteers for VITA; seeks innovative, evidence-based strategies to support the work of funded partners and United Way Suncoast initiatives across the organization.
- Demonstrates an understanding of regional drivers affecting area workforce, education and income, as well as household financial education needs. Is aware of systems-level change processes to improve social conditions. Can articulate these drivers and processes both verbally and in writing to all stakeholders.
- Develops and maintains relationships with human services providers, government and community leaders to maximize United Way Suncoast’s presence, build relationships, and identify potential partners for financial initiatives.
- Ensures timely and appropriate data collection, analysis and reporting delivered as needed; works with team members and provides research and applies best practices to the design and continuous improvement of all Community Impact activities. May draft communications materials for volunteer reports, events, marketing, or other organizational use.
- Works with the Senior Manager, Grant Development and Management to identify and pursue grant or other funding opportunities ensuring grant requests are submitted in a timely manner. Oversees awarded grant requirements, including meeting reporting deadlines and communication within United Way Suncoast to meet all funder requests.
- Oversees dissemination of information and promotional materials, as needed. Participates in and/or coordinates community information fairs, as needed, and provides outreach and education to meet goals and objectives for volunteer recruitment, event participation, program enrollment, etc.
- Maintains a current understanding of and is able to articulate United Way Suncoast’s Strategic Plan, all impact and/or focus activities, and all results. Participates in appropriate internal and external committees in support of United Way Suncoast’s community impact work.
The following requirements are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required to satisfactorily perform the essential job duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience:
- Volunteer management experience (including recruitment, training, supervision and retention) is highly desirable.
- Able to facilitate strong partner relationships, build consensus, problem solve, apply critical thinking and judgment skills required.
- Must be self-motivated and work well independently and in a fast-paced team environment.
- Knowledge of: Volunteer Management principles, Project Management, Financial and Workforce Systems, Research Methods, required.
- Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication skills, oral and written, including active listening, conflict resolution, coordination, facilitation, social perceptiveness, and consensus-building skills necessary. Successful team-building, influencing diverse individuals and groups to achieve necessary outcomes.
- Computer Skills: Requires advanced knowledge of MS Office software and use of internet and database programs. Knowledge of basic tax law and/or past IRS-certification a plus.
- Presentations Skills: Requires knowledge and ability to develop and deliver effective presentations.
Driver’s License: Valid Florida Driver’s License with a driving record that meets our insurance guidelines.