Description

Summary: State Futures supports a growing network of 850+ values-aligned state policymakers, including legislators and State Financial Officers (SFOs). We believe that policy moves at the speed of trust. Our network enables state leaders to learn from each other, innovate together, and take coordinated action across states. Through peer learning, policy research, and structured support for multi-state collaboration, we help state policymakers govern effectively and advance policies that transform markets, strengthen communities, and improve lives.

Position Overview: The Director of Policy (“Director”) oversees the day-to-day work of key State Futures (“SF”) programs. The Director works closely with the President to lead policy initiatives across SF as well as to define and execute program goals and plans. The Director also forges and manages partnerships and relationships with key allies to establish collaborative programs, working groups, and opportunities; presents work and represents SF among allies and stakeholders; and serves as a thought leader on policy.. The Director also serves as a key member of the leadership team, contributing to strategic decision-making, fostering a collaborative work environment, and driving organizational growth and innovation. This position reports to the President.

Responsibilities:

1. Policy Support & Programs (70%)
   
   • Plan and facilitate convenings, briefings, and working groups for state policymakers and allied partners in policy areas including but not limited to federal response, immigration, capital strategies, democracy, health care, and labor.
   • Equip state policymakers and allied partners with the information and tools necessary to advance policy solutions in the public interest.
   • Convene policymakers across different levels of government to collaborate on shared policy goals though ongoing working groups and episodic strategy sessions.
   • Build relationships and help manage communication and coordination with stakeholders, including partners.
   • Respond to rapid response and longer-term requests for support from lawmakers and staff, including gathering information, analyzing, evaluating, and communicating the potential impact of policy proposals.
   • Produce factsheets, memos and reports that compile information and best practices from the working groups and convenings held by State Futures. 
   • Develop, initiate, and implement plans for both rapid response and programmatic policy support for SF network members in and across states, including coordinating multi-state actions. 
   • Identify emerging policy issues that could be of interest to SF’s policy network and propose proactive responses.
   • Source and manage partnerships with allied organizations. 
2. Policy Department Management (20%)
   • Serve as the head of Policy department, providing strategic direction, leadership, and guidance to ensure the department's goals align with the organization’s broader mission and objectives.
   • Manage staff and functions of the department, ensuring effective and efficient execution and tracking of tasks, projects, and initiatives.
   • Develop and manage the department's budget, allocating resources effectively to meet department goals in accordance with organizational policy. 
   • Serve as a key liaison between the department and other departments, fostering collaboration, communication, and support across departments.
3. General Activities (10%)
   • Build and maintain relationships with existing and potential partners in the values-aligned policy and leadership ecosystem who can be programmatic collaborators.
   • Represent SF at tables, conferences, and other values-aligned ecosystem convenings.
   • Work with the President to prepare grant applications and materials for funders, including assisting in grant applications and status reports related to relevant programs.
   • Manage relationships with external contractors and vendors, as relevant.
   • Perform other duties as requested by the President.

Requirements

• At least 7–10 years of experience, including 3–5 years in a leadership role, in policy, advocacy, government relations, or a related field, with a demonstrated track record of successfully advancing policy priorities and influencing legislative outcomes.
• Strong understanding of the policy landscape related to state-level policy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex policy issues into clear, accessible materials for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated understanding of the legislative process, public policy, and government operations.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to work collaboratively and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience managing teams and working with cross-functional teams to achieve organizational goals.
• Deep understanding of the legislative process, regulatory agencies, and how to navigate the policy-making environment.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage competing priorities.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the organization, with a passion for creating positive social impact.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the role to info@statefutures.org. Please include “State Futures, Director of Policy, Application, [Last Name]” in the subject line.