DIRECTOR OF ADVOCACY & PUBLIC POLICY

Title: Director of Advocacy & Public Policy

Report: President and CEO

Location: Washington D.C.

Travel: Less than 15%

About the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS):

Founded in 1979, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions. The organization’s work is achieved through three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy, and Community Engagement.  For more information visit www.ndss.org.

Position Summary

Reporting to the President and CEO, the Director of Advocacy & Public Policy directs the implementation of federal, state, and local initiatives on behalf of NDSS. This role works in collaboration with the executive leadership team to research, assess, and implement advocacy and policy initiatives. This position is responsible for understanding the implications and effects of policy issues in relationship to NDSS’s programs and the community we serve. The Director of Advocacy & Public Policy will build relationships and professionally and effectively represent NDSS with community members, legislators, partners, and the media.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

To perform in this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs.

• Collaborate with NDSS President & CEO, colleagues, and policy advisors on federal, state and local priorities, and serve as an NDSS representative at meetings and events
• Develop and drive a strategic plan to influence federal, state, and local regulations in line with NDSS’ mission and strategic plan
• Manage and develop a high-performing team to meet strategic objectives
• Analyze the effectiveness of current policies and lead changes to meet objectives
• Develop and maintain relationships with constituents and stakeholders (Board of Directors, staff, federal and state legislators, local governments, partners, etc.)
• Serve as the main NDSS liaison to coalitions around issues on NDSS’ policy agenda
• Raise NDSS’ public profile on advocacy issues through participation in various public events including speaking engagements, conferences, and press opportunities
• Ensure compliance of federal, state, and local lobbying and ethics laws
• Author advocacy documents and legislative summaries for use with various internal and external audiences
• Oversee the implementation of strategic initiatives, including the NDSS DS-Ambassador Program and the Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference (Hill Day)
• Lead strategic initiatives including the NDSS Public Policy Advisory Committee
• Work with policy consultants spearheading Enable Tomorrow, a new cross-disability advocacy coalition that is working to achieve equal access to economic opportunity, mobility, and security for individuals with disabilities
• Other duties as assigned

Direct Supervisory Responsibilities:  

• Manager of State and Grassroots Advocacy
• Manager of Federal Government Relations 

Indirect Supervisory Responsibilities:  

• Manager of Public Policy
• Legislative Coordinator

Education and Experience:

• Minimum of bachelor’s degree in policy, public administration or related field required, master’s degree in public policy, public administration or related field preferred
• 8-10+ years relevant experience in government relations
• Experience in advanced federal and state advocacy and development of complex disability policy initiatives
• Demonstrated experience in lobbying and relationship building
• Experience managing large multi-stakeholder groups and coalitions
• Experience supervising staff, building a team, and providing cross departmental leadership
• Demonstrated record of sound political judgment and bipartisanship
• Significant experience in public speaking to large audiences with a focus on complex policy and legal topics
• Experience writing in numerous formats including presentations, advocacy documents, and reports
• Experience managing a budget is preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to provide quick, simple analysis and explanations of technical policies in both written and oral format
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Exemplary relationship management, interpersonal and communication abilities
• Excellent public speaking skills, research and analytical skills

• Energetic with the ability to complete several tasks in a short timeframe
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, strong willingness to initiate deadlines and time frames for assignments and to follow up on all delegated activities  
• Strong computer/technology skills; proficient in Microsoft Office
• Must be self-motivated and possess the ability to work well both independently and within a team
• Demonstrated commitment to the mission and goals of NDSS