Job description

Title: Senior Director of Advocacy & Public Policy

Report: President and CEO

Location: Washington D.C.

Travel: Approximately 25%

About the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS):

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. NDSS envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities. Founded in 1979, NDSS supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy, and Community Engagement. Within these focus areas NDSS engages in various activities, events, and programs on topics that are critical to our community such as federal and state advocacy and public policy, health and wellness, education, and employment. NDSS creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers across the lifespan and hosts awareness and engagement events throughout the country including the National Buddy Walk® Program, the Times Square Video presentation and New York City Buddy Walk®, Racing for 3.21 on World Down Syndrome Day, Run for 3.21, DC Golf Outing, the annual NDSS Gala & Auction, and various other events. Visit www.ndss.orgfor more information about NDSS.

Position Summary

Reporting to the President and CEO, the Senior 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 Senior 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 strategies 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’s policy agenda
• Raise NDSS’s 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
• Lead strategic initiatives, including the NDSS DS-Ambassador Program and the NDSS Advocacy and Policy Advisory Committee

Experience and Qualifications:

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree inpolicy, public administration or related field required
• 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

NDSS Benefits

NDSS currently offers a competitive comprehensive employee benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, LTD, STD and Group Life insurance, 403(b) retirement plan with employer match, flexible time off and paid holidays.

NDSS does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibility, personal appearance, genetic information, matriculation, political affiliation, or any other status protected under law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $105,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Washington, DC 20005: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

• government relations: 5 years (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Washington, DC 20005

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