ASSYST is seeking an experienced Strategic Planning Consultant for The Department of Permitting Services (DPS) in Montgomery County to lead the development of a comprehensive 5-Year Strategic Plan. DPS is the county’s one-stop shop for permits and licenses and consists of five divisions: Residential Construction, Commercial Construction, Land Development, Zoning and Code Compliance, and Customer Services and Support. This role will focus on crafting a strategic plan that improves DPS's overall efficiency, customer service, and operational effectiveness while aligning with community needs and county priorities.

Scope of Work:
The consultant will collaborate closely with DPS leadership, staff, and stakeholders to develop and implement a robust strategic plan. This plan will address departmental goals, customer satisfaction, employee development, organizational efficiency, and community engagement. It will consider factors like racial equity, social justice, regional settings, demographics, and the regulatory environment.

Job Title: Permitting Services/Strategy Planning Consultant
Location: Wheaton, MD 20902
Job Type: Contract

Phases of the Strategic Plan Development:

1. Exploration & Current State Assessment
2. Goal Setting & Strategic Planning
3. Operations, Resources, & Performance Analysis
4. Implementation Plan Development
5. Monitoring & Evaluation

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with DPS leadership to refine the department’s mission and vision statements.
• Review and update the department’s SWOT analysis.
• Identify and prioritize departmental goals and strategic initiatives.
• Integrate Racial Equity and Social Justice into the strategic framework.
• Develop short-term and long-term goals aligned with the department’s objectives.
• Create an action plan that includes measurable outcomes and performance indicators.
• Provide recommendations for enhancing customer service, efficiency, and productivity.
• Analyze current business strategies, market trends, and regulatory impacts.
• Conduct stakeholder engagement sessions and ensure effective communication strategies.
• Deliver a comprehensive 5-Year Strategic Plan for DPS stakeholders, staff, and the community.
• Facilitate weekly progress meetings with DPS leadership (virtual and in-person as needed).

Deliverables:

• Updated Vision and Mission Statements.
• Refined SWOT Analysis.
• Defined departmental priorities and strategic goals.
• Comprehensive strategic plan with action steps, performance measures, and implementation strategy.
• Final 5-Year Strategic Plan document for internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in strategic planning and organizational development, ideally within government or permitting services.
• Strong background in conducting SWOT analyses and developing strategic frameworks.
• Experience with customer service enhancement and business process improvement strategies.
• Familiarity with racial equity and social justice principles in public service settings.
• Excellent project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to facilitate in-person and virtual meetings effectively.
• Strong analytical skills to assess business environments and regulatory impacts.

ASSYST is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.