Director of Policy and Advocacy - Family & Child Welfare Coalition
Directs legislative strategy and policy initiatives to improve child welfare and family support systems.
Overview
This career centers on systemic change through the rigorous application of policy analysis and political strategy. The daily rhythm involves navigating the intersection of legislative cycles, public funding mechanisms, and the immediate needs of social service providers. Directors spend significant time interpreting new laws, drafting testimony for public hearings, and coordinating with member organizations to ensure a unified voice on child welfare issues.
Success in this field requires a deep understanding of the legal frameworks governing family law and foster care systems. The work is intellectually demanding and often requires rapid responses to emerging social crises or legislative deadlines. Those who excel are typically skilled communicators who can translate technical data into compelling narratives that influence lawmakers and public opinion while managing the competing priorities of a broad coalition.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a comprehensive multi-year advocacy strategy aligned with the coalition's mission.
- Draft legislative language, policy briefs, and formal testimony for government committees.
- Manage relationships with elected officials, legislative staff, and administrative department heads.
- Lead coalition meetings to build consensus among diverse member organizations on policy priorities.
- Monitor state and federal budgets to identify and secure funding for family and child services.
- Represent the organization as a spokesperson in media interviews and public speaking engagements.
- Supervise a team of policy analysts and grassroots organizers to support advocacy campaigns.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Public Policy, Social Work, Law, or a related field.
- Minimum of seven years of experience in legislative advocacy or government relations.
- Proven track record of influencing public policy outcomes in the human services sector.
- Advanced knowledge of child welfare systems and family law at the state or federal level.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for high-stakes professional environments.
- Experience managing staff or leading cross-functional project teams.
Nice to have
- Juris Doctor degree with a focus on administrative or family law.
- Established network of contacts within state or federal legislative bodies.
- Experience with media relations and digital advocacy campaign management.
Work environment
- Regular travel to state capitals or administrative offices for meetings and hearings.
- High-pressure environment during legislative sessions with extended working hours.
- Collaboration within a professional office or hybrid setting alongside diverse non-profit partners.
- Frequent use of legislative tracking software and communication platforms for coalition management.
Benefits & growth
- Competitive non-profit salary with comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for advancement to Executive Director or senior government leadership roles.
- Access to specialized professional development in lobbying compliance and non-profit management.
- High level of professional autonomy and influence over organizational strategy.
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