Director Public Affairs

Position Summary:

The National Director of Public Affairs - CHILDHOOD ADVOCACY is a pivotal leadership role responsible for guiding enterprise-wide initiatives in policy advocacy, thought leadership, and strategic communications aligned with the organization's mission, vision, and strategy. Reporting to the Vice President & Chief Program Officer, this role involves developing and executing multi-layered, multi-year strategies and workplans to advance a child-centered and racial equity-informed public policy agenda. The National Director will oversee the Public Affairs division, including both the policy and communications teams, ensuring cohesive and impactful efforts.

In addition to leading the Public Affairs division, the National Director will support the organization’s Action Council 501(c)4 platform, contributing to its strategic goals and activities. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of achieving results in public policy or strategic communications, complemented by a keen, contemporary understanding of political dynamics and a steadfast commitment to advancing the well-being of children and families.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Partner with the Vice President & Chief Program Officer to develop and implement comprehensive, multi-year strategies and workplans that drive the organization’s child-centered, racial equity-informed public policy agenda.
• Policy Advocacy: Lead efforts to shape and advocate for public policies that align with the organization’s mission and strategic goals. Ensure that policy initiatives reflect a deep understanding of contemporary political landscapes and the needs of children and families.
• Strategic Communications: Oversee the development and execution of strategic communication plans that effectively convey the organization’s vision, mission, and policy positions. Ensure messaging is consistent, impactful, and aligned with overall strategy.
• Team Management: Manage and mentor the Public Affairs division’s policy and communications teams. Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture that drives results and supports professional development.
• Action Council Support: Assist in advancing the goals and initiatives of the organization’s Action Council 501(c)4 platform, including strategic planning, implementation, and evaluation of advocacy efforts.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, advocacy groups, and community leaders. Represent the organization in public forums and media appearances as needed.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Track and analyze the impact of advocacy and communication efforts. Provide regular updates and recommendations to senior leadership based on outcomes and emerging trends.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, communications, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience (typically 7+ years) in public policy, strategic communications, or a related area, with demonstrated success in achieving results.
• Strong understanding of contemporary political dynamics and public policy issues, particularly those affecting children and families.
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, with a track record of building and leading high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex issues clearly and persuasively.
• Demonstrated commitment to racial equity and child-centered advocacy.
• Ability to navigate and influence within complex political environments and organizational structures.