09/19/2007 14700

DIRECTOR OF POLICY, PLANNING AND COMMUNICATIONS, PFBC

DEFINITION: This is highly responsible, professional work in directing the policy, legislative, communications, and strategic planning functions for the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC).

The employee in this job plans, directs and coordinates advanced policy, legislative, and program analysis and development work for aquatic resource projects of broad scope and statewide significance. Work involves directing the development of long-range policy recommendations on aquatic resource protection plans, agency programs, and conservation initiatives as well as the effective communication of these policies and programs. Work involves the development of policy, legislative initiatives, and planning documents by directing the design and execution of studies of programs, policies, and legislation impacting Pennsylvania's aquatic resources and the development of plans and reports for agency decision making. Work also involves policy and strategy formulation for the acquisition of alternative funding sources and the development of the programs associated with those funding sources, as well as overseeing the coordination of funding programs for outside agencies. Work includes directing communication efforts to inform the public and staff of PFBC programs and services through publications, presentations, and other related activities. The employee interacts with Commissioners, agency staff, and other state, local, and federal officials in carrying out assignments. Work is assigned in the form of broad objectives and goals and is evaluated based on their attainment by the Executive Director.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Directs the agency’s communications, legislative, conservation, and strategic initiatives and projects.

Researches, formulates, and provides advice on aquatic resource and conservation policy.

Oversees the survey of anglers and boaters and analyzes other information to determine fishing and boating trends, policy and program effectiveness, and recommends action.

Directs the review of proposed legislation for possible agency impact and recommends appropriate action.

Directs legislative initiatives in support of aquatic resources and the agency.

Provides input on policy and program information submitted to legislative committees.

Directs policy, program, and research studies to support Commission strategic initiatives.

Provides long-range policy recommendations on aquatic resource protection plans, agency programs, and conservation initiatives.

Represents the agency in discussions with federal, state, and local officials to gather and share information.

Oversees the development of an integrated communications program, which includes educational, press, and public relations components.

Identifies sources and directs conservation staff to secure alternative federal, intra-agency, and other untapped funding sources.

Develops of a statewide inter-agency non-game species management plan that addresses issues and needs related to the conservation of Pennsylvania's non-game species and habitats.

Provides advice and recommendations to executive staff and Commissioners on policies, plans and program initiatives.

Represents the Commission on a variety of standing and ad hoc committees and on interagency matters relating to conservation initiatives.

Prepares briefing documents, talking points and speeches for the Executive Director

Makes presentations on agency policies, programs, and initiatives.

Initiates and drafts replies to correspondence regarding the assigned areas of work.

The employee in this job may participate in the performance of their subordinates' work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

Performs the full range of supervisory duties.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and methods of strategic planning.

Knowledge of the principles and techniques of effective communications and public relations.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.

Knowledge of methodologies used in the collection, analysis, and presentation of statistical, economic and other information.

Knowledge of techniques used in policy research, program analysis, and planning.

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Five years of professional experience in the analysis and development of environmental policy or environmental program planning, which includes one year of professional experience in communicating environmental policies or programs to the public; and a bachelor's degree in planning, public administration, environmental science or a closely related field;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training.