Community Impact Director

Job Posting Organization:
The American Heart Association (AHA) was founded in 1924 and has since made significant strides in reducing cardiovascular disease deaths by half. The organization is dedicated to addressing the most pressing health challenges of today and is committed to ensuring a healthier future for all. With a mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, the AHA operates in various countries and employs a diverse workforce that is passionate about making a difference in community health. The AHA emphasizes work-life harmonization and values the contributions of its employees, encouraging them to thrive both personally and professionally.

Job Overview:
The Community Impact Director plays a crucial role in advancing the mission of the American Heart Association by building and nurturing relationships with internal staff, community leaders, volunteers, and businesses. This position is focused on addressing cardiovascular health disparities and promoting heart-healthy policies within the community. The director will support initiatives aimed at driving policy, systems, and environmental changes that lead to improved health outcomes. Responsibilities include coordinating outreach efforts, leading volunteer-driven initiatives, and ensuring that the organization’s impact is effectively communicated and measured within the community. The role requires a proactive approach to community engagement and a commitment to fostering health equity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Community Impact Director will be responsible for conducting market health assessments, organizing and leading community collaborations, and developing plans for policy, system, or environmental changes that drive health impact. Key duties include recruiting, training, and managing volunteers and strategic community alliances to achieve priority community and collective impact goals. The director will also build and implement a comprehensive strategy for hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol control, ensuring measurable outcomes in the San Diego market. Collaboration with development staff and volunteers to secure program funding, including sponsorships, is essential. The director will identify and assist in recruiting volunteers for leadership roles and work with internal staff to integrate population health strategies into various organizational activities. Additionally, the director may represent the AHA at community events and initiatives, acting as a subject matter expert on health risk factors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have at least 3 years of relevant experience in community or public health issues, managing health promotion programs, or related educational programs. A university or college degree or equivalent experience is required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a proven ability to recruit, mobilize, and manage volunteers, including high-level executives. Critical thinking skills are essential for assessing local market environments and resources to implement programs effectively. The ability to manage large projects and events while ensuring compliance with deadlines is crucial. Candidates should also be able to work efficiently in a multi-disciplinary team environment and influence team members without direct supervisory authority. Daily local travel and some overnight trips may be required, necessitating access to reliable transportation. Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office is also required.

Educational Background:
A university or college degree is required for this position, or equivalent experience in a related field. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in community health, public health promotion, or a similar area that supports the responsibilities of the Community Impact Director.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in community or public health issues, particularly in managing health promotion programs or related educational initiatives. Experience working with multicultural communities is preferred, as is familiarity with the social determinants of health and their impact on behavior modification and policy changes.

Languages:
While no specific languages are mandated, proficiency in English is essential. Additional language skills may be beneficial, especially in multicultural communities, to enhance communication and outreach efforts.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with an expected salary range of $70,800 to $90,000 annually, commensurate with experience. The American Heart Association offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as a robust retirement program with employer matching. Employees are also entitled to Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at a minimum of 16 days per year, increasing with seniority, and 12 paid holidays annually. The AHA supports professional development through tuition assistance and access to its online university, HeartU. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment.