Public Policy Associate

Public Policy Associate

Candidates will be asked to complete a short writing and proofreading exercise as part of the interview process.

Applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter as part of the application. The cover letter should be no longer than one page and should address the following:

The Public Policy Associate supports United Way of Greater Cleveland's public policy and advocacy efforts related to the social safety net and economic opportunity in Northeast Ohio. Reporting to the Senior Director of Public Policy, the position is responsible for carrying out policy research, monitoring and tracking legislative developments, preparing written analysis and briefing materials, and supporting coordination with internal teams and external partners.

The role focuses on ensuring that policy initiatives are well-documented, organized, and executed effectively.

Policy Research and Issue Tracking

Working under the direction of the Senior Director of Public Policy, the Associate executes research and tracks issues related to United Way's policy priorities including, but not limited to, SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, publicly funded childcare, affordable housing, benefit cliffs, and other social determinants of work.

Responsibilities include:

• Conduct local, statewide, and national research and summarize legislation, regulations, and policy proposals for internal and external use.
• Monitor policy initiatives and funding opportunities affecting the social safety net and economic mobility programs. Proactively alert the Senior Director to any major developments or changes, including recommended next steps when appropriate.
• Synthesize complex policy information into clear, concise summaries tailored to internal and external audiences.
• As the Associate demonstrates strong execution, reliability, and judgment, the role may expand to include increased ownership of specific policy priority areas, including leading research, shaping analysis, and contributing to strategic recommendations.

Event and Meeting Preparation

The Public Policy Associate supports the preparation and coordination of United Way's external facing policy work and events.

Responsibilities include:

• Manage, coordinate, and execute planning and logistics for policy events, advocacy days, legislative briefings, community conversations, and public policy forums.
• Draft and prepare outreach emails, invitations, policy-related communications, briefing materials, and background documents for meetings with policymakers, coalition partners, and community stakeholders.
• Draft meeting summaries and minutes, document key takeaways, track action items, and ensure timely follow-up on commitments made during meetings.
• Maintain internal tracking systems for policy initiatives and events, deliverables, and ongoing projects.
• Ensure written materials are clear, accurate, and ready for internal and external use.
• Manage multiple assignments simultaneously while ensuring tasks are completed fully and accurately.

Stakeholder Engagement

Under the direction of the Senior Director, the Public Policy Associate supports and coordinates engagement with legislators, government agencies, and community partners.

Responsibilities include:

• Prepare and execute materials, scheduling, and logistics for meetings with legislators, government officials, and coalition partners.
• Attend and participate in coalition meetings, policy forums, and advocacy events.
• Provide presentations to community stakeholders on United Way priorities and initiatives.

Other responsibilities as assigned.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Required

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in public policy,…