[Hiring] Lead Advocacy Officer @ZERO TO THREE

Role Description

The Policy Center at ZERO TO THREE, a nonpartisan, research-based resource on infant and toddler development, is seeking a changemaker and coalition-builder to serve as the Lead Advocacy Officer. The Lead Advocacy Officer will manage the federal policy, government relations, family and community mobilization teams to execute a power-building, integrated advocacy agenda that advances ZERO TO THREE’s mission of ensuring all babies and toddlers have a strong start in life. The Lead Advocacy Officer will report to the Chief Policy Officer and serve on the Policy Center’s Leadership Team.

Essential Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Collaboration:
  • Lead the design and advancement of ZERO TO THREE’s advocacy plan.
  • Collaborate with team, colleagues, and government relations consultants.
  • Plan and implement annual high-profile advocacy events.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant laws and ethical standards.
  • Develop strategic partnerships and coalitions at state and federal levels.
  • Monitor shifts in the political and policy landscape.
  • Work closely with various internal teams for alignment and integration.
• Strategic Engagement and Communication:
  • Serve as an external voice and representative for ZERO TO THREE.
  • Provide technical assistance to federal policymakers and staff.
  • Maintain robust internal communications.
  • Draft materials including talking points, policy briefs, and legislative summaries.
  • Coordinate congressional briefings and other events.
  • Keep senior leadership informed about legislative issues and proposals.
• Team Leadership and Supervision:
  • Supervise a team of experienced policy advocates and government relations professionals.
  • Provide mentorship and support to build a proactive team.
  • Evaluate team member performance and establish annual goals.
• Policy Advocacy and Organizational Alignment:
  • Understand the policy arena relevant to ZERO TO THREE’s agenda.
  • Advise colleagues on crafting campaigns and implementing strategy.
  • Establish processes to develop goals and priorities.
  • Monitor and assess proposed and existing relevant legislation.
  • Perform other duties as assigned for effective advocacy strategy.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 12 years of relevant advocacy and policy experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated advanced knowledge of influencing and advocating at federal and local levels.
• Strong critical thinker and strategic planner.
• Strong understanding of early childhood policy issues preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• Experience with strategy development and execution.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Education

• Law degree or master’s degree in public policy, social work, political science, or a related field.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary estimated to be $150,000 to low $170,000s depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, HRA, and retirement contributions.
• Generous leave benefits.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent use of finger dexterity and sufficient hand dexterity to use a computer keyboard.
• Ability to remain seated for extended periods.
• May need to lift up to 30 pounds.

Essential Qualities

• Encourages and practices critical thinking.
• Is self-reflective and empathic.
• Maintains a respectful and accepting approach to others.
• Collaboratively supports the work efforts of colleagues.

Working Conditions

• Typically work indoors in a heated and air-conditioned office.
• May be subject to working conditions conducive to a home environment.

ZERO TO THREE is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

Due to the high volume of applications, we are not able to provide individual feedback to candidates regarding the status of their application. If selected to move forward in the process, someone from the hiring team will contact you regarding next steps.