The Director of Grassroots Advocacy will report to the Chief External Affairs Officer and be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive statewide grassroots strategy to advance the New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association’s (NJPCSA) mission and policy goals. This position involves coordinating and mobilizing parent volunteers, advocates, and partner organizations across the state, building and maintaining relationships with community leaders, and engaging with policymakers at the local and state levels. The Director will also oversee the development of educational materials, advocacy campaigns, and events aimed at promoting public awareness and support for public charter schools across New Jersey.
Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:
1. Strategy Development and Implementation:
Develop and implement a strategic grassroots advocacy plan aligned with the organization's mission and policy objectives. Work with the Chief External Affairs Officer and Director of Communications and Government Affairs to identify key legislative and regulatory priorities at the state and local levels and create action plans to influence policy outcomes.
2. Campaign and Event Management:
Plan and execute advocacy campaigns, including grassroots lobbying, public events, and digital advocacy efforts. Organize and manage events such as rallies, town halls, and community meetings to engage the public and policymakers. Oversee the development of advocacy materials, including fact sheets, action alerts, and social media content.
3. Volunteer and Advocate Engagement:
Recruit, train, and mobilize a diverse network of parent and community volunteers across the state. Develop and implement training programs to empower parent and community advocates with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively engage in advocacy efforts. Provide ongoing support and resources to NJPCSA advocacy network to sustain engagement and amplify impact.
4. Coalition Building and Partnerships:
Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, partner organizations, and coalitions to expand the reach and effectiveness of advocacy efforts. Collaborate with partner organizations to coordinate joint advocacy initiatives and campaigns. Develop and maintain relationships with key lawmakers and their staff. Represent the organization in coalition meetings, community events, and other forums.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, communications, or a related field. Required 5 years of experience in grassroots organizing, advocacy, or a related field. Proven track record of developing and executing successful advocacy or political campaigns.
Skills and Abilities:
Strong understanding of state and local legislative processes and public policy issues. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills. Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders. Superb organizational and project management skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. Strong commitment to NJPCSA’s mission and values.
Other Requirements:
Willingness to travel across the state as needed. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Compensation and Benefits
The salary for this role is commensurate with experience. NJPCSA offers a competitive benefits package including medical and dental coverage, as well as a 403B Roth retirement plan.
NJPCSA encourages individuals of all ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization and to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Danielle Alpert, Chief External Affairs Officer, at dalpert@njcharters.org. Please include "Director of Grassroots Advocacy" in the subject line of your email.
About the Organization
The New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association (NJPCSA) is a membership organization and the statewide advocacy voice for New Jersey’s 85 public charter schools and the 62,000 students that they serve. We believe that every student deserves the chance to get a great public education at a school that puts their needs first regardless of zip code, income, or ability level. It is our vision that every child in the State of New Jersey will have the opportunity to attend a high-quality public school that best meets his or her needs. We seek to advance quality public education for New Jersey’s children through excellent public charter schools.
Learn more about NJPCSA at: https://www.njcharters.org/about-njpcsa/
Employment type
Full-time
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