Community Partnership Specialist

Parks matter to Calgarians. They are cherished places where we play, connect with each other, and immerse ourselves in nature. Parks development is vital to the creation of healthy, innovative, and liveable cities. For more than 30 years, in collaboration with our cherished donors and partners, Parks Foundation has been a catalyst in pioneering and creating outdoor spaces in our city that we love and value.

The Community Partnerships Specialist will play a key role in advancing the Parks Foundation Calgary’s community and grant programs. This position is responsible for identifying and developing viable project and grant opportunities, fostering new partnerships, and ensuring the successful execution of partnered projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Promotion and Relationship Building

• Develop and implement an annual promotion plan for the Foundation’s programs, collaborating with the marketing team to ensure effective execution and monitoring.
• Represent the Foundation at community events, park openings, and recognition ceremonies to promote program visibility and strengthen relationships.
• Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with external partners and organizations, including Sport Calgary, the Federation of Calgary Communities, and other relevant groups, to enhance program awareness and support. 

Partner Acquisition and Development

• Achieve an annual target of 30 or more new projects that form grant/project partnerships with the Parks Foundation. This will involve actively reaching out to 5-10 prospective communities and sport organizations on an ongoing basis, engaging through emails, meetings, and relationship-building initiatives.
• Provide guidance to potential partners on grant opportunities, project management processes, regulatory approvals, and fundraising strategies.
• Prioritize equity-deserving projects, ensuring that over 50% of new partnerships align with the City of Calgary’s Equity Index.

Grant Program Coordination and Oversight

• Lead the execution, monitoring, and evaluation of the Parks Foundation’s Amateur Sport Grant Program, ensuring effective program delivery and impact.
• Review and assess grant applications, responding to applicant inquiries, and making recommendations for funding approval.
• Organize and facilitate grant committee meetings, providing detailed reports for board review and decision-making.
• Monitor program budgets, ensuring compliance with financial guidelines and efficient use of funds.
• Collect and analyze data to assess the impact of the grant program, using insights to inform future strategies and improve program outcomes.
• Provide stewardship information to Parks Foundation’s fund development team to allow for updates to key parties, including the City of Calgary and other funders.
• Support the administration of the Foundation’s annual client satisfaction survey to gather feedback and improve service delivery.

Advisory and Project Support

• Offer advisory and account management support to sport-related project partners, ensuring they adhere to program and recognition guidelines, and successfully manage their projects from inception to completion.
• Provide fundraising and project management advice to sport-related community projects, helping them navigate challenges and maximize their impact. 

Administrative and Reporting Duties

• Track interactions and progress within internal systems, ensuring accurate and timely data management.
• Prepare and submit monthly reports detailing partnership development, financial projections, and support needs for the Foundation’s fundraising and management teams.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Education: Post-secondary education in nonprofit management, community development, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience:
• Experience in the nonprofit sector, with a focus on program coordination, partnership development, or fundraising.
• Strong background in community engagement and relationship building, particularly with diverse or equity-deserving groups.
• Familiarity with grant programs, project management, and budgeting.
• A background in sales, business development, or similar fields is an asset, especially for those with experience in building partnerships and securing support.
• Technical Qualifications: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word) and experience with CRM or project management software.
• Valid Driver’s License: Must have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle for work-related travel.

Skills:

• Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop and maintain effective partnerships and engage stakeholders.
• Project Management: Organized and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence others at all levels.
• Equity & Inclusion: Understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a commitment to supporting underrepresented communities.
• Persuasion & Negotiation: Comfortable initiating and cultivating new partnerships, with the ability to advocate for projects and secure support

Working Conditions:

•  Occasional evening and weekend work may be required for events and meetings.
• Travel within Calgary and surrounding areas may be necessary for community outreach and program-related activities.

Location and Work Hours:

This role primarily operates from our office at 225 13 Avenue SW, Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Flexibility in hours and occasional weekend/evening work may be required based on project needs.

Why Join Parks Foundation?

• We offer a competitive base salary ranging from $65,000 - $75,000
• You will receive a generous benefits package, including health coverage, wellness programs, and ample time off to recharge
• You will be part of a collaborative and inclusive team that values diversity and a culture of mutual respect and encouragement
• Working with Parks Foundation Calgary you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing Calgary’s natural beauty. Your contributions will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come
• Regular team-building activities making work more enjoyable
• Professional development opportunities to grow in your career and expand your skillset

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter online, preferably, in one document. While we thank all who apply, only those deemed qualified by the hiring manager will be contacted.