Vice President of Public Policy

Background

Philanthropy Ohio is a statewide membership association that leads and equips Ohio philanthropy to be effective partners for change in our communities. Working towards a vision of a just and vibrant Ohio through impactful philanthropy, our dedicated staff helps members achieve their charitable goals by advocating, educating, convening and collaborating – all while centering equity.

The Vice President of Public Policy is a dynamic leadership role that shapes and advances Philanthropy Ohio’s public policy strategy at the state and federal levels. As the organization’s primary policy advocate, this leader will engage, convene and mobilize Philanthropy Ohio’s diverse membership to identify shared policy priorities and amplify the collective voice of philanthropy across Ohio.

Working at the intersection of policy, relationship-building and member engagement, the Vice President will cultivate constellations of public policy work across the state – connecting foundations, community leaders and partners around common issues and opportunities for impact. Through these networks, the Vice President will foster collaboration, elevate member voices and help transform local expertise into statewide influence. The Vice President will guide interested members along the advocacy engagement spectrum, meeting them where they are and helping them take meaningful next steps that complement their funding priorities through active advocacy.

This role provides strategic vision and oversight for all public policy initiatives, leads member-driven policy affinity groups, serves as Philanthropy Ohio’s primary registered lobbyist and manages the staff and consultants who support its advocacy efforts. The Vice President also collaborates closely with coalition partners to advance shared policy priorities and takes on special projects that further the organization’s mission and strategic goals.

This is a full-time, exempt position reporting to the President & CEO. The position may be based anywhere in Ohio, with regular travel to Columbus and statewide to engage with legislators, state leaders, Philanthropy Ohio members and key partners.

• Shape and advance Philanthropy Ohio’s state and federal public policy agenda, advancing policies that strengthen Ohio’s communities and the charitable sector.
• Serve as the organization’s primary public policy expert and advocate. Translate complex legislative and regulatory developments into timely, practical guidance including policy briefs, action alerts and educational resources for members in collaboration with the Public Policy and Grants Director.
• Represent Philanthropy Ohio before state and federal policymakers, legislative bodies and sector partners, including providing testimony, engaging with contract lobbyists and serving as the organization’s lead spokesperson on public policy issues.

• Activate and mobilize members through meaningful opportunities for learning, advocacy, leadership and collective action.
• Working with the Network Engagement Director, cultivate member networks, committees and coalitions that elevate shared priorities that strengthen the philanthropic sector and advance shared policy priorities.
• Lead signature advocacy initiatives, including Foundations on the Hill in Washington, D.C., Philanthropy at the Statehouse in Columbus and other public policy events.

• Build and sustain strategic relationships with policymakers, government agencies, philanthropy-infrastructure organizations, coalition partners and other stakeholders to amplify philanthropy’s collective voice and advance shared policy goals.

• Provide leadership across the organization as a member of the Leadership Team, contributing to strategic planning, organizational priorities, revenue generation and culture.
• Lead and develop the public policy team and external consultants by setting departmental priorities and stewarding resources to maximize impact.

• Work closely with the Communications & Membership team to…