DSP is hiring: Policy Advocate

Position:               Policy Advocate

Reports to:          Director of Public Affairs

Function: This position is responsible for managing public policy and advocacy efforts for the organization. Under direction of the Director of Public Affairs, in coordination with DSP leadership and staff, this position is expected to direct policy initiatives by analyzing emerging issues, researching best practices, developing communication strategies and messaging, serving as advocate for downtown stakeholders before policymaking bodies, and educating and mobilizing those stakeholders on emerging downtown issues.

Specific duties include, but are not limited to:

PUBLIC POLICY

  • Monitor policymaking bodies (primarily at the city level, but also at the state and federal) to identify proposals that will impact Downtown Sacramento or DSP mission;
  • Execute strategies for advancing positive proposals and defeating or mitigating the effects of negative proposals;
  • Analyze public policy issues identified as important to downtown and work with DSP staff to develop position statements;
  • Track policy trends and identify emerging downtown issues;
  • Research like issues in other jurisdictions to determine ‘best practices’ and formulate recommendations; and,
  • Provide timely and accurate information on downtown policy issues to DSP leadership.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

  • Implement communications plans to advance policy efforts, which educate and promote active involvement of downtown stakeholders;
  • Respond to stakeholder inquiries and issues and manage outreach process;
  • Participate in downtown, city, and regional planning efforts to advocate for downtown interests; and,
  • Act as liaison and develop partnerships on policy issues with peer organizations, regional entities, and neighborhoods.

ADVOCACY

  • Serve as a public policy advocate for DSP at local and state levels;
  • Communicate DSP’s positions through letters, direct contact with policymakers, and public testimony;
  • Prepare position papers for Board approval and adoption; and,
  • Assist DSP in setting a policy agenda and implementing communications strategies to publicize DSP positions.

STRATEGIC PLANNING

  • Work with DSP leadership and staff to implement the organization’s strategic plan; and,
  • Manage stakeholder groups working toward achieving policy initiatives (Strategic Development Committee).

Requirements:  Individual must have 4-year college degree and previous work experience related to policy analysis, communications, community outreach, and/or government relations. Position requires exceptional strength in organization, writing, public speaking, advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

To Apply:               Email cover letter and resume to Emilie Cameron at [email protected]. 

POSTING CLOSING DATE – 5p.m. August 3, 2016