Director of Advocacy and Government Relations

Salary Range

$80,000.00 to $100,000.00 annually

About the Role

The Director of Advocacy and Government Relations for enCircle is responsible for developing and implementing strategic advocacy initiatives at the state and federal policy levels on issues that affect our organization and the people we serve. This includes policy issues related to developmental services and behavioral health, child welfare, immigration, and special education. Reporting to the Chief Strategy Officer, the Director of Advocacy and Government Relations is part of the External Relations team and works closely with the Vice President of Communications, the rest of the External Relations team, and program leaders to develop effective advocacy messages. This position works with partner organizations and in collaboration with provider associations to which enCircle belongs to represent us at the Virginia General Assembly and with state executive branch agencies, as well as in Washington, DC when necessary. The Director of Advocacy and Government Relations will help enCircle continue to grow as a trusted source of expert knowledge in our service areas for policymakers.

Minimum Education, Training, Requirements, and Prerequisites

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, or human services with at least 5 years of proven and progressive experience in the field.
• A strong commitment to social justice and the policy issues surrounding social services to children, adults, and families.
• Experience in advocating effectively with state and federal policymakers on behalf of human services providers and/or marginalized populations.
• Ability to understand and analyze state policies and budgets; knowledge of Virginia state government and processes preferred.
• Ability to develop strong and respectful relationships with key stakeholders and policymakers on both sides of the aisle and represent enCircle professionally in all settings.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Understanding of nonprofit organizational environment and comfortable working with diverse groups of people, from board members to staff at all levels, those we serve, and community partners.
• A demonstrated commitment to the Guiding Principles of enCircle: Abundance, Person-Centered, Relationships, Shared Ownership, Social Justice, and Stewardship.
• A highly detail-oriented and organized approach to work that is deadline-driven, as well as the ability to connect legislative initiatives to enCircle’s strategic goals.
• Ability and willingness to travel.
• Valid Virginia Driver’s License with satisfactory driving record and proof of insurance.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Functions

• Work with program leaders to identify policy-related barriers, threats, and opportunities.
• Develop enCircle advocacy messages and resources for policymakers, in collaboration with the rest of the team to ensure consistent messaging and branding across audiences.
• Represent enCircle at relevant coalition, association, and government entity meetings, including testifying at relevant hearings and meetings as needed.
• Track, summarize, and analyze policy proposals and changes that affect enCircle’s programs and/or the people we support.
• Develop relationships with local, state, and federal elected officials in areas where enCircle operates, organizing site visits and informational meetings as needed.
• Assist in developing enCircle advocacy champions within staff and those we support, facilitating their participation in relevant advocacy activities.
• Participate in enCircle’s Leadership Team meetings to stay current on program-related issues and update colleagues on advocacy-related issues.

Why You’ll Love Working at enCircle

We offer a competitive salary starting at $80,000 annually. Additional compensation is considered with education and experience. Plus, an exceptional benefits package including:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Nationwide Pet Insurance, including coverage for reptiles, birds, and exotic pets
• 401(k) and 401(k) Matching
• Employee Assistance Program, including access to Chaplain Services
• Educational Assistance Program
• STD, LTD, Life, and AD&D Insurance
• Generous PTO and Paid Holidays
• Retention Bonus
• Cell Phone Reimbursement
• Unlimited Access to the Premium Calm App for staff plus friends and family

Learn more here