JOB DESCRIPTION
Position:Policy Manager or Director of Policy
Hours:Full time, Salaried (some evening & weekend work required)
Supervisor: Chief Executive Officer
Compensation: Manager level: $75,000 – 90,000;
Director level: $100,000 to $115,000
Start Date: May 2023
SUMMARY
Circulate San Diego (Circulate) is hiring for a high-profile role in the San Diego policy and media environment. We are open to a mid-level Manager or senior-level Director for this position. This position is perfect for a lateral jump into a nonprofit, for an up-and-comer looking to take the next step in their career, or for a seasoned professional to make a big immediate impact. The position presents an opportunity to build a strong reputation in the San Diego political sphere.
The position is responsible for advancing policy goals of a prominent local think tank, including through research, direct advocacy, and the press. This position supports the organization and the Chief Executive Officer with the development and implementation of policy campaigns related to transit, safe streets, and sustainable growth.
Our office culture is both collaborative and kind. Everyone is motivated by our mission, and a shared sense of purpose. Staff follow a hybrid schedule working in-office at least two days a week and are permitted to work remotely for the rest. In addition to the competitive salary, the organization also offers generous benefits including a 401(k), parental leave, and substantial sick time and vacation time.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
- Work collaboratively with the Chief Executive Officer and the organization’s Leadership Team to implement visions and strategies to support Circulate’s policy positions and advocacy.
- Prepare written materials to communicate Circulate’s positions, including letters, blogs, position papers, legislative proposals, and public comments.
- Prepare well-researched policy reports to serve as anchors for advocacy campaigns.
- Represent Circulate by speaking at public hearings, coalition meetings, and other high-profile and high-stakes discussions.
- Organize and conduct lobby meetings with elected officials, their staff, and high-level agency staff.
- Serve as an organizational spokesperson with the press, write press releases, speak with media for on-the-record comments, and setup press conferences. Must be comfortable with on-camera interviews and public speaking.
- Collaborate with the Director of Development to identify corporate and philanthropic funders.
- Participate in an organizational culture of philanthropy, engaging with donors and the board, and identifying opportunities to highlight work with funders.
- Collaborate with the Directors of Development and Planning to support grant funded activities by tracking time, meeting deliverables, and writing progress reports.
- Provide staff support and manage the Circulate Policy Committee and Vision Zero Committee.
- Manage Circulate’s Mobility Certification program for smart growth projects.
- Track policy initiatives and activities at the local and regional levels and provide analysis to guide Circulate’s position.
- Foster collaborative working relationships and coalitions with organizations and individuals in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to advance Circulate’s advocacy objectives.
- Provide technical assistance and training to local residents and community partners to garner grassroots support and participation in Circulate’s advocacy efforts.
- Organize public education and advocacy events such as roundtables, information forums, trainings, and news conferences in support of research reports.
- Represent Circulate in national, state and local events including panels, meetings, trainings and conferences.
- Hire and manage volunteer interns to support policy work.
- Perform related work as required falling within the general duties of the position.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Graduate Degree (or comparable experience) in Policy, Planning, Law, or other relevant field
- Minimum 1-3 years for Manager level, and 5+ years for Director level in a policy-oriented job function.
- Strong oral and written communications skills
- Experience in local government, campaigns, or public policy
- Experience working with social media, supporter management systems, websites
- Existing relationships with the San Diego political community preferred
- Spanish fluency a plus
Compensation and Benefits
- Salary DOE: Manager level: $75,000 – 90,000; Director level: $100,000 to $115,000
- Health and dental coverage
- 401(k) employer match of up to 4% of employee contributions
- 10 annual vacation days
- 10 paid holidays and 10 annual sick days
- Paid parental leave
- Professional development fund
How to Apply
Circulate San Diego values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. Women, people of color, people with disabilities, and gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people are encouraged to apply.
Interested applicants should e-mail a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and any relevant work product examples to [email protected], and with the subject line “Policy Role.” Only applications that follow those instructions will be considered. No phone calls please.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by the incumbent(s) of this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and activities required of the position. This job description is subject to review and amendment in light of experience and in the annual employee review process.
