Director of Public Policy & Advocacy

Florida | Full-Time | Remote Hybrid Eligible

Influence Policy. Champion Advocacy. Drive Lasting Systems Change.

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Inc. (FDDC) is seeking an accomplished, mission-driven Director of Public Policy & Advocacy to help advance public policies and advocacy initiatives that improve the lives of Floridians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced public policy and advocacy professional to work at the intersection of government relations, disability rights, legislative education, and statewide systems change. Working closely with the Executive Director, Council members, policymakers, advocacy organizations, and community partners, the Director will help shape policy priorities, strengthen collaborative relationships, and advance initiatives that promote independence, inclusion, self-determination, and meaningful opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Florida.

FDDC is Florida's federally funded Developmental Disabilities Council, established under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act). The Council identifies pressing needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families and advances innovative programs, public policy initiatives, advocacy efforts, and collaborative partnerships designed to improve Florida's systems of services and supports.

FDDC's work is guided by a comprehensive Five-Year State Plan and a commitment to ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities have opportunities to participate fully in their communities and make informed choices about their lives.

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Director of Public Policy & Advocacy plays an important role in advancing FDDC's legislative education, public policy, and advocacy priorities at the state and federal levels.

The Director serves as a key resource to Council leadership on emerging legislation, regulatory developments, and policy issues affecting individuals with developmental disabilities. This position develops and maintains relationships with government officials, legislators, advocacy organizations, and other stakeholders while coordinating efforts that strengthen the Council's voice and influence in public policy discussions.

The successful candidate will bring a strong understanding of the legislative process, the ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable strategies, and a genuine commitment to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

• Advance public policy priorities by working with the Executive Director and Public Policy Committee to identify, develop, and coordinate advocacy initiatives aligned with FDDC's Five-Year State Plan.
• Build influential relationships with Florida legislators, legislative staff, executive branch officials, government agencies, disability organizations, and community partners.
• Monitor and analyze legislation and policy developments at the state and federal levels, evaluating their potential impact on individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and Council priorities.
• Serve as a trusted policy resource by preparing legislative briefings, policy analyses, educational materials, and recommendations for Council leadership, stakeholders, and policymakers.
• Coordinate legislative education and advocacy activities, including meetings with elected officials, stakeholder forums, Disability Awareness Day activities, and disability policy seminars.
• Strengthen grassroots advocacy by supporting self-advocates, families, caregivers, and Council members in developing the knowledge, communication skills, and confidence to participate effectively in public policy discussions.
• Facilitate collaborative partnerships with advocacy coalitions, legislative consortia, task forces, and other organizations to identify shared priorities and opportunities for systems change.
• Support the Public Policy Committee through meeting coordination, policy updates, research, and implementation of committee priorities.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal and state requirements governing legislative education, lobbying, and advocacy activities.

FDDC is looking for a knowledgeable, relationship-driven…