NRP is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Policy and Program Director to supervise a wide range of civic and electoral engagement programs in our focus counties. The Policy and Program Director must reside in one of the focus counties (Union, Anson, Richmond, Scotland, Robeson, Hoke, and Moore) or a neighboring county and be able to travel daily as needed within these areas.

 

This role involves advancing our mission through strategic policy analysis, advocacy, and program development. The Policy and Program Director will work closely with internal teams, volunteers, external partners, and stakeholders to shape policies and initiatives that positively impact our target communities. This role requires a keen understanding of public policy, excellent communication skills, knowledge of program management principles, and the ability to drive programmatic initiatives from inception to implementation. The ideal candidate will have a strategic mindset, leadership skills, and the ability to motivate diverse rural communities. The Policy and Program Director reports to the Executive Director of NRP.

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Apply Now!

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Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

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Policy Analysis, Advocacy, and Stakeholder Engagement

• Research and analyze local, state, and federal policies affecting NRP’s mission, target populations, and focus counties.

• Coordinate the development of NRP’s critical issues, policy priorities, strategies, and advocacy activities based on the concerns of our focus counties.

• Stay informed on existing state and local advocacy efforts and collect ongoing input from community leaders and stakeholders.

• Develop policy recommendations for NRP.

• Advocate for policy changes through strategic partnerships, coalition-building, and direct engagement with policymakers.

• Cultivate relationships with community leaders, government officials, and partner organizations to foster collaboration and support.

• Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and public forums to promote our policy agenda and initiatives.
   

Program Development and Management

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs that align with NRP’s goals and support advocacy efforts, including planning programs from start to completion involving deadlines, milestones, budgets, and processes.

• Monitor and assess program outcomes, making data-driven adjustments as needed.

• Oversee the hiring, management, and training of program staff, including day-to-day assignments and facilitation of team meetings.

• Create goals and coach, mentor, and inspire program staff so that they can reach pre-defined metrics.

• Collaborate with the Organizing department to engage local organizations and partners to support community programs.

• Create detailed and accurate reports to determine progress and issues, informing management with presentations.

• Apply change, risk and resource management principles when needed.

• Lead the implementation and development of the communication strategy of programs.

• Ensure program operations and activities adhere to legal guidelines and internal policies.
   

Public Education and Outreach

• Develop educational materials and campaigns to raise awareness about key policy issues and their impact.

• Conduct outreach activities to engage community members and stakeholders in advocacy efforts.

• Grants and Funding Support:

• Assist in grant writing and fundraising efforts related to policy and programmatic initiatives.

• Track funding opportunities and contribute to grant proposals that align with organizational priorities.
   

Experience and Qualifications

• 4-plus years of experience managing grassroots/issue-based campaigns, and/or experience working in issue advocacy, and program development.

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Social Sciences, or a related field (Master’s degree a plus).

• Demonstrated experience in policy analysis, advocacy, or program development.

• Strong understanding of legislative processes and policymaking at various levels of government.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to summarize complex information for diverse audiences.

• Previous leadership experience with responsible decision-making authority in the management and evaluation of others.

• Experience leading projects with multiple partners/stakeholders, and experience working directly with high level elected officials, grassroots activists, and community members from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.

• Ability to work non-business hours depending upon the workload and upcoming deadlines.

• Must pass a background check.
   

Skills and Attributes

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products (i.e. Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint), Google Suite, and various social media platforms.

• Non-profit experience a plus.

• Excellent written, communication, and public speaking skills.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and balance competing demands.

• Current experience in specified counties is preferred.

• Working knowledge of program management software (e.g. MS Project, Asana, etc.).

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills

• Ability to work in a fast paced, metrics-driven work environment with strong time management skills.

• Passion for working and living in rural communities, social justice, equity, and improving the lives of underserved populations.

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APPLY NOW!

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