Senior Director or Associate Vice President of Public Policy, State

Reports to: EVP, Chief Strategy and Public Policy Officer

Position Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Location: Hybrid - Proximity to Washington, DC required

Description

The Parkinson’s Foundation is seeking a strategic and driven Senior Director or Associate Vice President of Public Policy to lead our state-level public policy efforts. As a key member of the growing Public Policy team, this individual will develop and implement initiatives that shape state policies to improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease. This individual will establish the Foundation’s state public policy agenda, drive advocacy campaigns, engage with policymakers and partners, and conduct policy-related research and analysis. This role requires a proactive and collaborative professional with a deep understanding of government relations and public policy strategy.

Organizational Overview

The Parkinson’s Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. For over half a century, we have made tangible progress in our three mission pillars: research, care, and education. Today, we continue to:

• Fund game-changing research on treatment and care.
• Support the delivery of high-quality care to people living with Parkinson’s.
• Serve as the trusted and go-to source for information and resources on Parkinson’s disease.
• Convene the best minds from every corner of the global Parkinson’s community to develop research and clinical approaches that enhance care and move us closer to a cure.

As an evidence-based organization, everything we do is informed by facts, careful planning and involvement of our PD community members. We seek to build on our 2021-2025 Strategic Plan to achieve even greater results by 2030.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Leadership: Lead state policy and advocacy efforts. Serve as a leading voice, internally and externally, on state public policy. Manage state policy initiatives from planning through execution, coordinate with internal teams and external partners to ensure alignment and impact.
• Policy Development and Research: Develop and advance state-level policy priorities that align with organizational goals. Analyze legislation, regulations, and emerging issues to assess risks and opportunities. Conduct research to inform policy positions and strategic decisions.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, including state policymakers, government officials, industry associations, and advocacy groups. Serve as lead liaison between the Foundation and state government bodies.
• Advocacy and Influence: Develop and execute strategies to influence policy outcomes, working to advance the organization's interests including direct lobbying, coalition-building, public education, and other advocacy strategies.
• Communication and Representation: Clearly communicate policy positions to internal and external audiences, represent the Foundation at policy forums, public meetings, and conferences. Draft reports, briefings, testimony, and policy communications.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to the development of the organization’s overall public policy strategy, working with teams across the Foundation and aligning policy efforts with organization objectives.

Experience/Skills Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Public Health, Political Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in health policy, advocacy, or government relations, including roles within State legislatures, government agencies, and/or on Capitol Hill.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop effective policy and advocacy strategies.
• Strong interpersonal skills with experience building partnerships across sectors. Track record of managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines.
• Deep understanding of state health policy landscapes and state government/legislative processes.
• Experience working with policymakers, government officials, and other stakeholders to influence policy outcomes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel as needed for advocacy meetings, conferences, and legislative sessions.
• Demonstrated commitment to the organizational values of excellence, teamwork, collaboration, integrity, positivity, dedication and responsiveness.

Compensation

Salary for this position is competitive and depends on prior experience. In addition, a comprehensive benefits package is included. The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $170,000. This salary range reflects current market data and is aligned with the responsibilities and qualifications required for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on a candidate’s skills, experience, and alignment with organizational needs.

How to Apply

Please email resume and cover letter to Employment@Parkinson.org. Applicant review will continue until the position is filled. Please indicate "Senior Director or Associate Vice President of Public Policy, State" in the subject line. Resumes without cover letters will not be considered. No phone calls please.

The Parkinson’s Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our culture and in our work on behalf of people with Parkinson's disease.

All new hires are required to be fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus, subject to any legally required accommodations.