State Alliance of Michigan YMCAs: Senior Director of Advocacy

Salary
$91,000.00
$125,000.00
Resumes Accepted Until
Resume Contact
[email protected]
Join the amazing and innovative team at the State Alliance of Michigan YMCAs and make a statewide impact! 
Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Senior Director of Public Policy is responsible for the advancement of the State Alliance of Michigan YMCAs by his/her impact on public policy, securing resources, guiding state-wide program initiatives and ensuring elected federal and state leaders are knowledgeable about the YMCA mission and cause, as well as foster statewide communication, cooperation and consensus on issues important to Michigan YMCAs. 

The position reports to the Chief Partnership Officer and works closely with the State Alliance contract lobbyist, and Public Policy Chair.  

OUR CULTURE: 
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in political science, communications, or related field. 

At least 5 years of experience in public policy and/or government relations.

Demonstrated strong interpersonal, verbal/written communication, and presentation skills.

Ability to work independently as an active and engaged member of a team.

Respectful of and responsive to different communication styles of colleagues.

Understand the importance of and places high value on diversity and inclusion.

Familiarity with the YMCA movement, culture, mission and purpose. 

Travel within Michigan up to 25%, including a regular presence in Lansing. Travel outside of Michigan is required occasionally.

Physical Demands: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use a computer for extended periods of time and be able to communicate using a computer and phone/smart device.  The employee frequently is required to sit and reach, and must be able to move around the work environment. 

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.  

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position works remotely from a home office within Michigan. A company laptop computer and other necessary home office equipment and supplies will be provided, with the option of using personal equipment.

GRANT FUNDED POSITION: 

This position is grant funded, therefore is contingent on the Alliance’s continued level of funding throughout the duration of the appointment. 

Essential Functions

 LEAD PUBLIC POLICY WORK: 

  • Provide staff leadership to the Alliance Public Policy Committee, including but not limited to managing monthly meetings, sustaining and recruiting committee members and presenting public policy updates at state alliance meetings. 

  • Act as a liaison to the Alliance Contract Lobbyist and provide direction regarding YMCA priorities. 

  • Scan and monitor legislative activities , including monitoring the State budget with regard to YMCA priorities. 

  • With the support of the Public Policy Committee, the CPO and the Movement Services Coordinator, create legislative priorities, Statewide Benefit Statement and advocacy toolkits and resources. 

  • Build relationships with state lawmakers. Coordinate in district and in Lansing visits with lawmakers and key departments. Attend legislative visits at YMCA sites when invited. 

  • Create summary of legislative activities for dissemination  to the Alliance. 

YUSA RELATIONS: 

  • Act as the lead Alliance staff  with YUSA Government Relations. 

  • Participate in National Advocacy efforts.

  • Attend, organize, and lead the Michigan Delegation for YUSA Advocacy Days, including orienting and supervising youth advocates. 

  • Track YMCA visits with lawmakers in Quorum. Submit all necessary documentation to YUSA as requested. 

Alliance Support and Activities

  • Support Youth in Government conferences in Michigan by attending the High School and Middle School conferences. 

  • Participate on the Alliance Leaders Committee and support/design a public policy track for attendees. 

GENERAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Support the mission, vision, and goals of the State Alliance of Michigan YMCAs; promote character development and the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. 

  • Attend Alliance in person and zoom meetings as assigned, including but not limited to Leaders Conference, CEO meetings, statewide network meetings, Alliance staff huddles. 

  • Comply with all policies and procedures, including but not limited to HR and finances. 

  • Promote the value of diversity and the importance of being an inclusive organization to others inside and outside of the organization. 

  • Represent the YMCA as needed through various groups, organizations, and/ or coalitions. Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community and state organizations. 

  • Special projects as assigned. This is not intended to be all-inclusive. It is understood that the employee will also perform other reasonably related business duties if requested by the supervisor.

  • Statewide travel will be required for this position.