The SPARK (Strategic Planning, Performance, Agility, Reinvention, and Knowledge) Unit is a new program within the Office of the Chief Operating Officer that will empower the County to build a more responsive, future-ready government. Overseen by the Director of Strategic Initiatives, the team will advance strategic focus, continuous improvement, and innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the communities served by Multnomah County.
SPARK is grounded in five key principles that drive its purpose and goals:
- Strategic Planning: Chart a clear course by developing comprehensive roadmaps aligned with the County's newly reimagined mission, vision, and values. We'll connect goals to actions, ensuring resources are focused to build thriving communities.
- Performance: Embrace a results-oriented approach, using data to uncover insights, benchmark progress, and identify where we can excel even further. SPARK will leverage the expertise and skills of the Evaluation and Research Unit to maximize impact.
- Agility: Foster a culture of adaptability and responsiveness, leading with equity at the forefront. We'll embrace flexibility and streamline processes, ensuring we're equipped to navigate any challenge or opportunity that lies ahead.
- Reinvention: Ignite transformation by reimagining how we serve our residents. From experimenting with new approaches to eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy, SPARK will pave the way for innovation.
- Knowledge: Prioritize learning, sharing best practices, and supporting our teams through change. SPARK will create a culture of continuous knowledge-building, ensuring our county thrives well into the future.
The SPARK Unit’s Strategic Initiatives Managers support the COO, Deputy COOs, and Director of Strategic Initiatives with countywide operational priorities and providing project management, cross-departmental facilitation, and strategic analysis on complex county priorities. The SPARK Unit’s Continuous Improvement Managers support teams across the County on process improvement — streamlining processes and creating a culture of continuous improvement. The Evaluation and Research Unit provides high-quality, data-driven research and evaluation for the County. This includes analysis of countywide organizational health, effectiveness of externally focused inter-jurisdictional program priorities, and evaluation of the effectiveness of Department of County Management programs.