GRADE
23
LOCATION OF POSITION
Office of Social Equity, Linthicum, Maryland
Main Purpose of Job
The Economic Opportunity Officer position is in the Office of Social Equity (OSE), an independent executive agency formed out of the Cannabis Reform Act of 2023. The OSE reports directly to the Governor's Office and does not have a reporting relationship to, or through, the Maryland Cannabis Administration. The selected candidate for this position will report directly to the Executive Director of the OSE. This role is crucial in supporting our mission to provide resources and support for historically disadvantaged individuals and businesses seeking to enter the Maryland adult-use cannabis industry.
This position will play a pivotal role in developing and implementing initiatives which promote economic inclusion and advancement in the Maryland Cannabis industry toward communities which are disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. This position will be responsible for identifying economic disparities, as well as for crafting targeted programs and for collaborating with stakeholders to enhance opportunities.
This position will employ an equity-focused approach to drive access, inclusion and diversity within Maryland's Cannabis industry. This position will also be expected to actively contribute insights and guidance on legislation and policies which affect the social equity landscape.
This position will be expected to have strong communication skills, with an ability to effectively advocate for social equity goals and represent the Office of Social Equity (OSE) in various forms. For instance, this position will advocate for increased participation in the regulated industry from individuals who are from communities which are disproportionately impacted by cannabis criminalization. Furthermore, this position will serve as OSE's representative on social equity matters in engagements with federal, State, and/or local governments, as well as in engagements with non-governmental organizations.
To add on, this position must possess strong project management skills in order to effectively oversee and coordinate multiple initiatives aimed at enhancing economic opportunities within the Maryland Cannabis industry. This position requires the ability to develop detailed project plans, along with the ability to set objectives, manage resources, and ensure the timely completion of projects. Proven project management experience will enable this position to handle complex tasks, monitor progress, and achieve strategic goals efficiently.
Additionally, this position will be responsible for organizing and executing events which foster economic access and inclusion, as well as community engagement. Such events include workshops, seminars, and networking events which will be designed to inform, educate, train, and connect cannabis businesses, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders. Professional experience in event planning is essential in ensuring that these events are well-coordinated, impactful and aligned with the overall mission of promoting economic growth and opportunity.
Lastly, this position will be expected to be familiar with Maryland's social equity initiatives and/or with similar programs in other jurisdictions. A demonstrated commitment to social justice and advancing opportunities for underserved communities is necessary in order to achieve the highest level of performance possible in this role.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A Bachelor's degree in Economics, Public Policy, Business Administration, or a related field(s).
Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of experience in economic development, social equity, and/or a related field(s).
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
The desired candidate should have experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and/or educational institutions. The desired candidate should also have experience managing budgets, as well as experience making strategic recommendations to senior leadership.
Additionally, the desired candidate should have experience developing and implementing economic inclusion initiatives, particularly in communities which are impacted by systemic inequities. Furthermore, the desired candidate should have a track record of success with developing and executing programs, with a particular focus on measurable outcomes and impact assessments.
To add on, the desired candidate should have experience working with and/or within government agencies, particularly in roles in relation to equity and inclusion. Finally, the desired candidate should be knowledgeable of best practices in mentorship and workforce development programs, as well as be knowledgeable of the cannabis industry as a whole, including regulatory frameworks and market dynamics.
The desired candidate should have an advanced degree (i.e. Master's, Doctoral, J.D.) in Economics, Public Policy, Business Administration, or a related field.
SELECTION PROCESS
This is a Management Service position and serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority. A resume must accompany your application.
Applicants who meet the minimum (and selective) qualifications will be included in further evaluation. The evaluation may be a rating of your application, based on your education, training and experience, as they relate to the requirements of the position. Therefore, it is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all related education, experience, dates, and hours of work. Clearly indicate your college degree and major on your application, if applicable. For education obtained outside the U.S., any job offer will be contingent on the candidate providing an evaluation for equivalency by a foreign credential evaluation service prior to starting employment (and may be requested prior to interview).
Complete applications must be submitted by the closing date. Information submitted after this date will not be added.
Incorrect application forms will not be accepted.
Candidates may remain on the certified eligible list for a period of at least one year. The resulting certified eligible list for this recruitment may be used for similar positions in this, or other, State agencies.
BENEFITS
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application (and supplemental questionnaire) may be submitted to MCA, Office of Human Resources, 849 International Drive, Linthicum, Maryland 21090. Paper application materials must be received by 5 pm, close of business, on the closing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.
If additional information is required, the preferred method is to upload. Only additional materials which are required will be accepted for this recruitment. All additional information must be received by the closing date and time.
For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact MCA's Office of Human Resources, at (410) 487-8060 or (443) 761-8194. You may also reach us via email, at mca.employment@maryland.gov.
If you are having difficulty with your user account or have general questions about the online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, at 410-767-4850 or Application.Help@maryland.gov.
Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling: (410) 487-8060 or MD TTY Relay Service, at 1-800-735-2258.
We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.
People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.
