Job Title: Director of Policy
Location: Remote
Organization: State Futures
Summary:**** State Futures envisions a nation where values-aligned state policymakers collaborate to advance bold policies, strengthen democracy, and improve lives. We build state capacity by convening policymaker cohorts to counter harmful state and federal policies, coordinate multi-state action, and implement transformative solutions in health care, reproductive justice, climate, labor, consumer protection, and democracy. Additionally, we support peer-led mentorship and governance programs that empower state leaders—especially women and policymakers of color—to govern boldly and drive lasting change.
Position Overview: The Director of Policy (“Director”) oversees the day-to-day work of key State Futures (“SF”) programs. The Director works closely with the President to lead policy initiatives across SF as well as to define and execute program goals and plans. The Director may also assist the President on an interim basis on other programs. The Director also forges and manages partnerships and relationships with key allies to establish collaborative programs, working groups, and opportunities; presents work and represents SF among allies and stakeholders; and provides fundraising and development input to the organization. The Director also serves as a key member of the leadership team, contributing to strategic decision-making, fostering a collaborative work environment, and driving organizational growth and innovation.
This position reports to the ** President.**
Responsibilities:
Develop, initiate, and implement plans for both rapid response and programmatic policy support for SF network members in and across states, including coordinating multi-state actions.
Respond to rapid response and longer-term requests for support from lawmakers, including gathering information, analyzing, evaluating, and communicating the potential impact of policy proposals.
Conduct research and analysis on relevant policy issues, including gathering information, analyzing, evaluating, and communicating the potential impact of policy proposals.
Convene policymakers across different levels of government to collaborate on shared policy goals.
Plan and facilitate convenings, briefings, trainings and working groups for state policymakers and allied partners to equip them with the information and tools necessary to advance policy solutions in the public interest.
Identify emerging policy issues that could be of interest to SF’s policy network and propose proactive responses.
Develop, initiate, and implement convenings for a group of allied organizations similarly interested in policy in the public interest.
Source and manage partnerships with allied organizations.
Serve as the head of Policy department, providing strategic direction, leadership, and guidance to ensure the department's goals align with the organization’s broader mission and objectives.
Manage staff and functions of the department, ensuring effective and efficient execution and tracking of tasks, projects, and initiatives.
Develop and manage the department's budget, allocating resources effectively to meet department goals in accordance with organizational policy.
Serve as a key liaison between the department and other departments, fostering collaboration, communication, and support across departments.
Build and maintain relationships with existing and potential partners in the values-aligned policy and leadership ecosystem who can be programmatic collaborators.
Represent SF at tables, conferences, and other values-aligned ecosystem convenings.
Work with the President to prepare grant applications and materials for funders, including assisting in grant applications and status reports related to relevant programs.
Manage relationships with external contractors and vendors, as relevant.
Perform other duties as requested by the President.
Qualifications:
At least 7-10 years of experience in state policy advocacy, government relations, or a similar field, with a proven track record of success in influencing policy and legislative outcomes, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
Strong understanding of the policy landscape related to state-level policy.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex policy issues into clear, accessible materials for diverse audiences.
Demonstrated understanding of the legislative process, public policy, and government operations.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to work collaboratively and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
Experience managing teams and working with cross-functional teams to achieve organizational goals.
Deep understanding of the legislative process, regulatory agencies, and how to navigate the policy-making environment.
Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage competing priorities.
Commitment to the mission and values of the organization, with a passion for creating positive social impact.
Working Conditions:
Full-time position.
Fully remote position.
Occasional travel may be required for meetings, events, or site visits.
Compensation:
Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience ranging from $125,000 - $165,000. Benefits include:
Employer sponsored health benefit
Cell phone and Internet reimbursement up to $100 per month
Home office reimbursement
Professional development reimbursement
Generous family leave
Opportunity for bonuses
Generous vacation time
21 organization-wide holidays including closures the week of Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas and New Years Day
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the role to info@statefutures.org. Please include “State Futures, Director of Policy, Application, [Last Name]” in the subject line.
State Futures is an equal opportunity employer and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply.