Public Policy and Advocacy Associate

Overview: Under the general direction and supervision of the Director of Public Policy & Advocacy, the Public Policy & Advocacy Associate manages one or more membership Divisions and/or Forums and helps execute the CT Community Nonprofit Alliance’s (The Alliance’s) public policy agenda and advocacy plans on behalf of Alliance members. This position functions as an advocate, organizer, and resource to Alliance member organizations. The Public Policy & Advocacy Associate is responsible for working with members to monitor and affect necessary legislative and regulatory change, as well as develop strong relationships to advance policy priorities. This position allows for hybrid work, except during the legislative session when in-person work is required at the state capitol. The Alliance is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable employment experience for all.

Classification: Exempt

Hours: Full time

Work Location: Hybrid, WFH & Hartford/State Capitol

Reports to: Director of Public Policy & Advocacy

Salary: $70,000-$80,000 commensurate with experience

Education: Bachelor’s Degree

Qualifications: A minimum of three years’ relevant work experience in nonprofit, government or a related industry. Knowledge of the state and federal legislative processes. Familiarity with intellectual/developmental disabilities issues preferred. Proficient in MS Office, communication software such as Mailchimp, and social media. Excellent research, verbal, written, presentation, and analytic skills. Ability to work collaboratively with diverse perspectives and individuals from a variety of organizations, including government officials. Ability to develop and maintain relationships, manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines. Must register and function as a lobbyist for The Alliance. Access to a vehicle and a current driver’s license; requires in-state travel and occasional out-of-state travel.

Job Specific Duties:

1. Prepares and executes monthly Division meetings and forums, including guest speakers from state agencies, regularly and communicates with Division members and state agencies to advocate for member priorities.
2. Builds relationships with state agency leadership and legislators to support The Alliance’s members serving people with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities.
3. Serve as a lobbyist for The Alliance, working with the CT General Assembly to represent The Alliance and its members, specializing in services for people with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities.
4. In conjunction with Division leadership, develops strong and focused sector-specific legislative proposals.
5. Prepares testimony, correspondence, and policy briefs. Assists members in preparing testimony and participating in advocacy activities.
6. Represents The Alliance on external committees, workgroups and task forces as needed.
7. Reviews pending legislative and executive branch matters with policy staff. In conjunction with policy staff, advises members concerning possible action.
8. Alongside the policy team, advocates for The Alliance’s public policy agenda, including developing policy positions, drafting legislative proposals and materials, and collaborating with stakeholders.
9. Alongside the policy team, monitors and tracks legislation impacting the nonprofit sector.
10. Develops and maintains cooperative relationships with community partners and policymakers.
11. Alongside the policy team, publishes periodic reports and white papers about issues impacting the nonprofit sector.
12. Provides technical assistance related to public policy questions for Alliance members.
13. Other duties as assigned.

Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of the responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the position of Public Policy & Advocacy Associate.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance
• Short-term Disability, Long-term Disability and Life Insurance
• 403b Retirement Plan
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off: 11 Holidays, Vacation, Sick, Personal/Discretionary
• Employee Assistance Program