Director, Advocacy & Policy

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Full Time New York, NY, US

10 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $80,874.00 To $ Annually

Position:Director, Advocacy and Policy

Reports to:Associate Vice President, Advocacy and Policy

Department:Advocacy and Government Relations

Organization

Summary:

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) works with a coalition of trusted partners to unite community power with citywide possibility. Together, we meet today’s most urgent needs while building transformative solutions for tomorrow — striving for health, opportunity, and prosperity for every New Yorker in every neighbourhood. Part of the United Way Worldwide system, one of the world’s most recognized charitable brands, we believe that New Yorkers deserve to thrive where they live and envision a future where all New Yorkers have the resources they need to live long, healthy lives in flourishing and resilient neighbourhoods.

We strive to model our values in all our relationships, both internal and external:
Collaboration, Compassion, Integrity, Accountability, and Superior Performance.

UWNYC’s Advocacy and Government Relations work is grounded in a place-based approach, collaborating with community organisations, government partners, and policymakers to advance policies and public investments informed by local knowledge, community priorities, and the lived experiences of New Yorkers.

Position Overview:

Reporting to the Associate Vice President, Advocacy and Policy, the Director, Advocacy and Policy manages the implementation of assigned policy, advocacy, research, and government relations initiatives. Working under the AVP’s strategic direction, the Director conducts policy analysis, develops recommendations for review, coordinates advocacy activities, and maintains relationships with government officials, coalitions and community partners.

The Director translates research and community insights into policy materials and actionable recommendations that support UWNYC’s approved legislative and budget priorities. The role collaborates across departments, manages project work plans, and represents UWNYC in designated meetings and forums to advance equitable outcomes for New Yorkers.

Primary Responsibilities:

Policy and Government Relations

• Implement assigned city, state, and federal policy and advocacy initiatives in alignment with priorities established by the AVP and organizational leadership.
• Monitor legislation, budgets, and regulations; assess potential implications for UWNYC’s programs and the communities it serves.
• Develop policy recommendations and draft organizational positions for review and approval.
• Maintain working relationships with elected officials, legislative staff, government agencies, and coalition partners.
• Coordinate legislative meetings, lobby days, and related advocacy activities, including preparation, logistics, and follow-up.
• Represent UWNYC in designated meetings and communicate approved organizational positions.

Research and Policy Development

• Conduct policy research and legislative analysis related to UWNYC’s advocacy priorities.
• Draft policy briefs, testimony, reports, memos, talking points, and advocacy materials for review.
• Incorporate community perspectives, program insights, and relevant data into policy recommendations.
• Collaborate with program and data colleagues to assess policy impacts and track progress toward advocacy objectives.
• Prepare timely summaries of policy developments and emerging issues for the AVP and internal stakeholders.

Advocacy and Coalition Building

• Manage the day-to-day implementation of assigned advocacy campaigns and coalition…