Project Manager

Position Summary

Much of OBI’s work lies at the intersection of policy, communications and coalition building. OBI’s work spans an array of issues and requires the coordination of a number of projects, stakeholders and moving parts. This project manager position will act as a key utility player within the OBI team, providing critical support to the team via the external affairs portfolio through project management, policy and political event management, strategic communications support and the execution of other organizational priorities, initiatives and tasks.

The project manager reports to the vice president for external affairs and works closely with all members of the OBI team. The project manager must think strategically and creatively to solve problems, identify new opportunities and drive initiatives to advance the work of OBI. The project manager will represent OBI in a variety of settings and must be comfortable working both collaboratively and independently.

Responsibilities and Duties

The following is an illustrative, not exhaustive, list of responsibilities and duties for the project manager:

• Coordinate specific externally focused events such as, but not limited to, issue specific policy summits, targeted webinars or others as assigned and in coordination with the events manager, external affairs vice president, related policy directors and other appropriate personnel.
• Manage specific projects arising in partnership with the OBI Research and Education Foundation projects as they arise, including things such as, but not limited, the Oregon Civics Bee, issue specific reports and studies, and publications/information dissemination. Included in this work will be fundraising support.
• Coordinate with and support OBI’s communications team to ensure creative, effective and timely dissemination of relevant information.
• Proactive ideation on possible communications strategies, external engagement opportunities and other tools and venues that advance OBI’s mission.
• Monitor resources offered by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Retail Federation, National Association of Manufacturers and other national, regional and local partners for opportunities for collaboration and/or duplication of successful programs.
• Support the OBI Small Business Council.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• General understanding of state government structures and political systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Proven track record of project management.
• Ability to build and lead coalitions, stakeholder groups or similar.
• Keen attention to detail, strong organizational skills and an ability to multi-task and prioritize work assignments.
• Minimum of four years of relevant experience.
• Proficiency with commonly used technology platforms, such as the Microsoft Office suite of products and Zoom.

Position Location

OBI has offices in both Salem and Portland. The qualified candidate will be assigned to one of those locations. The opportunity for some hybrid/remote work at the direction of the positions supervisor exists pursuant to OBI’s workplace policies and when projects and schedules allow. Minimal travel may be required to attend meetings and events.