Special Assistant to the Commissioner

Agency Description:
The Department of Small Business Services (SBS) helps unlock economic potential and create economic security for all New Yorkers by connecting New Yorkers to good jobs, creating stronger businesses, and building a fairer economy in neighborhoods across the five boroughs.

Job Description:
The Special Assistant to the Commissioner will work as part of the Executive Office team, supporting the agency’s chief executive while gaining a unique view of SBS’ diverse economic development portfolio of business-, workforce-, and neighborhood-development initiatives. The position offers privileged perspectives into the day-to-day of government operations, organizational leadership, and political and community relations. The qualified candidate will be meticulously detail-oriented, excel in verbal and written communication, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.

Primary responsibilities will include:
Commissioner Schedule and Office Management: Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Special Assistant will serve as the gatekeeper to the Commissioner’s office, answering executive office phones and managing the Commissioner’s extensive calendar of public events and private meetings. This individual will be the primary point of contact for the Commissioner’s day-to-day schedule and will be responsible for managing all logistical details and necessary preparation. Using careful discretion, this individual will also help to vet and properly route incoming requests from Agency staff, constituents, City partners, and outside stakeholders. Other administrative duties may include managing travel arrangements, event and meeting set-up, and basic office management in coordination with the facilities and technology teams.

Preparing Commissioner for Events and Briefings: The Special Assistant will be responsible for briefing the commissioner on their engagements, requiring them to coordinate with outside entities and agency staff around meetings and events and will be responsible for researching, analyzing and synthesizing information that is presented by the Commissioner. They will also draft presentations, talking points, remarks, and other meeting materials; and track follow-up items and deliverables. This individual will draft correspondence and external messages on behalf of the Commissioner and the agency. The Special Assistant may be asked to represent the agency’s position at external events and meetings.

Supporting Strategic Communications and Planning Agency Events: Work with the Chief of Staff, Human Resources, and other agency leadership to draft, refine, and disseminate internal and external communications on behalf of the Commissioner and executive office, ensuring messages are tailored to the appropriate audiences and aligned with agency priorities. The Special Assistant will also help organize all-staff gatherings including but not limited to meetings, events, fireside chats, and retreats.

Lead Special Initiatives: The Special Assistant will lead and/or assist with other initiatives and duties identified by the Chief of Staff and Commissioner, as assigned.

COMMUNITY COORDINATOR - 56058

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or
2. High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or
3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.