Job Description

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Studio Director reports directly to the CEO and is responsible for overseeing the Urban Planning & Urban Design studio. The Studio Director will have responsibility for leading the comprehensive planning and urban design efforts for J29:7 Planning & Development Corporation. This position will be responsible for building out and managing a team of planning and design professionals that can deliver on inclusive, community-driven plans that will inform the real estate development activities of the firm and our clients. We work all across the country with an emphasis on Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs), but not exclusively.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Urban Planning & Design Studio Director who is passionate about inclusive neighborhood development and making a positive impact in underserved communities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in urban planning, community engagement, and design, with a demonstrated commitment to equity and social justice. You're not afraid to roll up your sleeves, dig in, and think creatively about how to make communities whole. You’re passionate about the work that we do and feel called to have a meaningful impact in the communities that will welcome your genius. The ideal candidate won’t mind being met with interesting new challenges that push the limit on creative solutions to address systemic failures in the built environment. 

ABOUT J29:7

At J29:7, we are a diverse and passionate team of professionals dedicated to making a significant difference in underserved communities through our expertise in urban planning, architecture, construction, real estate development, and community engagement. We firmly believe in the power of inclusive neighborhood development and addressing systemic issues to create equitable and thriving communities.

Our firm takes a holistic approach to community master planning, recognizing that successful development extends beyond physical infrastructure. We understand that sustainable and transformative change requires a comprehensive understanding of social, economic, and environmental factors that shape communities. By integrating the expertise of architects, construction-oriented professionals, real estate developers, and community specialists, we bring a multidisciplinary perspective to our projects. We rise early and stay late because we are passionately driven by the work that we do. But make no mistake about it, we all left “jobs” when we stepped into our roles at J29:7 to pursue purpose in the communities that we’ve been called to serve and you couldn’t pay us enough to be doing what we have fun doing daily.

ESSENTIAL START-UP TASKS

• Recruit a team of professionals necessary to deliver on the master plan pipeline which currently consists of 5 projects ranging from a very dense 1.25-acre site to a 28-acre site in a rapidly growing urban core.

• Determine the timeline for execution of the master planning process

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and communicate a clear vision and strategic direction for the urban planning and design studio, emphasizing inclusive neighborhood development and community impact.

• Lead the studio's operations, ensuring efficient project management, resource allocation, and adherence to timelines and budgets.

• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, promoting creativity, innovation, and professional growth among team members.

Inclusive Neighborhood Development:

• Lead the development and implementation of inclusive neighborhood development strategies that address the needs and aspirations of underserved communities.

• Identify opportunities for community-driven initiatives and partnerships that promote equitable development, affordable housing, economic empowerment, and social well-being.

• Apply principles of sustainable design and placemaking to create vibrant, accessible, and livable neighborhoods for all residents.

Community Engagement:

• Design and facilitate inclusive and participatory community engagement processes that empower residents, stakeholders, and marginalized groups to actively contribute to neighborhood planning and decision-making.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with community organizations, local leaders, government agencies, and other key stakeholders to ensure diverse perspectives are considered in the planning and design process.

• Incorporate feedback and insights gathered from community engagement activities into planning and design strategies to ensure they align with community needs and aspirations.

Project Management and Design Excellence:

• Oversee the planning and design of urban development projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables that reflect best practices in urban design, architecture, and sustainable development.

• Provide guidance and support to project teams, ensuring effective coordination, interdisciplinary collaboration, and adherence to project goals and objectives.

• Monitor project progress, evaluate outcomes, and make necessary adjustments to ensure successful project completion within budget and schedule.

Advocacy and Thought Leadership:

• Serve as a passionate advocate for inclusive neighborhood development, promoting equity, diversity, and social justice within the urban planning and design field.

• Engage in thought leadership activities, including publishing articles, presenting at conferences, and participating in relevant industry forums to share insights and contribute to the advancement of inclusive urban development practices.

• Stay updated on emerging trends, policies, and innovative approaches in urban planning, equity, and community development, integrating this knowledge into the studio's work.

Comprehensive Neighborhood/Community Planning (i.e. Project Management, Real Estate Development, Urban Planning, Operations, Administrative Support, Financing, etc.)

• The Studio Director will be responsible for overseeing approximately 5 neighoborhood/community development plans per year working primarily with Faith Based Organizations (FBOs)

• Oversee and manage a team of professionals responsible for delivering of the Studio’s pipeline

• Develop and drive the selection process for FBOs that will go into the annual master planning process

• Assist with annual fundraising efforts to identify grant support for FBO master planning

• Provide urban design and concept planning to J29:7’s real estate team on J29:7’s real estate pipeline

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, Architecture, or a related field required

• At least 5-7 years of Urban Planning/Design experience with at least two years of management experience

• Proven experience (3-5 years) in urban planning, community development, and design, with a focus on inclusive neighborhood development and underserved communities.

• Strong understanding of social equity issues, racial justice, and community engagement practices.

• Knowledge of urban design principles, sustainable development, and placemaking strategies.

• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.

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• Track record of successful project delivery and impact in underserved communities.

• Passion for creating equitable and inclusive neighborhoods that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

• List all relevant certifications and licenses

SKILLS AND TOOLS

• Knowledge of various GIS platforms and tools

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and build strong community relationships

• Proficiency in relevant software tools and technologies used in urban planning and design

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Commensurate with experience (starting at $100k)

• Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance offered

• 401(k) Offered

• Generous PTO & Paid Holiday Policy

If you are a dynamic and visionary leader committed to driving inclusive neighborhood development and making a difference in underserved communities, we invite you to apply for the position of Urban Planning & Design Studio Director. Join us in creating transformative urban spaces that empower and uplift communities in need.

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