Job Description

This role offers an exciting opportunity for an accomplished public service or higher education leader to strengthen local governance and community collaboration across Berks County. The Director of the Center for Excellence in Local Government (CELG) provides strategic vision and operational leadership for programs that empower municipal officials, enhance public utility management, and foster civic engagement. Reporting to the President of the College, this position also serves as the administrative lead for the Berks County Water & Sewer Association (BCW&SA), supporting vital infrastructure partnerships throughout the region.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Provide visionary leadership for all CELG and BCW&SA initiatives, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and community needs.
• Develop and implement strategic and annual operating plans to advance CELG’s mission.
• Build and sustain relationships with municipal leaders, advisory boards, and community stakeholders.
• Represent CELG at meetings, conferences, and regional planning discussions.

Program Development & Community Engagement

• Design and deliver educational programs, workshops, and forums for local government and utility officials.
• Facilitate technical assistance, research initiatives, and citizen engagement projects that strengthen local governance.
• Partner with public agencies, regional associations, and educational institutions to expand CELG’s impact.
• Contribute to academic enrichment through guest lectures or applied learning opportunities.

Berks County Water & Sewer Association (BCW&SA) Oversight

• Lead BCW&SA’s operations, including membership engagement, programming, and collaborative initiatives.
• Provide administrative and technical support to member organizations to promote effective water and sewer management.
• Leverage College resources to enhance BCW&SA’s reach and community value.

Budget & Resource Development

• Manage annual budgets for CELG and BCW&SA, ensuring responsible financial stewardship.
• Strengthen financial sustainability through memberships, sponsorships, grants, and partnerships.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities to expand programs and support long-term growth.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in public administration, public policy, education, or a related field.
• Minimum of eight years of progressive experience in government, education, or public service, including at least five years in a leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated success managing multi-stakeholder projects, advisory boards, and community partnerships.
• Familiarity with municipal operations, governance structures, and local government challenges.

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Strategic planning and program management expertise.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.
• Financial acumen with experience in budgeting and fundraising.
• Strong understanding of public administration and community development issues.
• Self-directed, collaborative, and highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Work Environment & Benefits

The Director operates within a collaborative academic environment, engaging with college leadership, faculty, and community partners to strengthen local governance across Berks County. The position offers a balanced mix of campus-based work, community engagement, and partnership development. Competitive salary and benefits are included, along with opportunities for professional growth and regional impact.

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