Government Relations Director

At Catapult we are supporting our member NC Child in their search for a Government Relations Director. NC Child is based in Raleigh NC and this is a full time hybrid role with occasional travel requirements.

About NC Child

NC Child builds a strong North Carolina by advocating for policies that improve the lives of all North Carolina children. NC Child is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Raleigh NC.

Position Overview:

NC Child is seeking an experienced and strategic Government Relations Director to lead our legislative advocacy efforts. This role is essential in advancing legislation and public policies that improve the well-being of North Carolinas children and families. The Government Relations Director will serve as the organizations primary liaison to policymakers manage legislative advocacy efforts and work closely with staff coalition partners and community members to ensure that the voices and experiences of children and families are reflected in decision- making. This position requires exceptional relationship-building skills a strong understanding of the legislative process and the ability to develop and execute effective advocacy strategies.

Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with legislators government agencies and other policymakers on behalf of NC Child.
• Manage contract lobbyist(s).
• Track the status of state and federal legislation; collaborate with policy staff to prepare timely reports and recommendations for leadership.
• Collaborate with NC Child staff to design and execute effective advocacy campaign strategies that advance the organizations mission and policy priorities.
• In collaboration with communications and policy staff prepare policy briefs talking points and regular updates for staff board and Child Advocacy Network members.
• Attend and represent NC Child at relevant sessions and committee meetings of the North Carolina General Assembly.
• Serve as a spokesperson for NC Child providing clear accurate and compelling commentary to the media on policy issues affecting children and families in close coordination with the communications staff.
• Works closely with community engagement staff to engage volunteers parents youth and community members in advocacy efforts integrating their lived experiences into meetings with policymakers and public testimonies.
• Represent the organization in advocacy coalitions working groups and alliances to advance shared goals.
• Provide legislative engagement training and support to Child Advocacy Network members as needed.
• Help to identify potential partnership and funding opportunities to advance NC Childs mission.
• Assist with grant-writing and fund development efforts as appropriate.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in public policy political science communications or a related field; advanced degree preferred or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 3-5 years experience in government relations preferably in North Carolina.
• In-depth knowledge of North Carolinas legislative process.
• Demonstrated success influencing state legislative policy.
• Strong relationships with policymakers legislative staff and advocacy partners or the ability to develop them quickly.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to craft clear and persuasive messages for diverse audiences.
• Experience serving as a public spokesperson or engaging with the media on policy issues.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff partners and community members to achieve shared goals.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to NC Childs mission of improving the well-being of children and families in North Carolina.

Bonus Qualifications:

• Bilingual in Spanish/English

Position Requirements:

• NC Child uses a hybrid work model. This person will be required to work in person at the NC Child office in Raleigh or at other in-person meetings or events 2 days each week.
• This person will occasionally need to travel around and outside of the state. They will be reimbursed for all mileage traveled to project sites at the standard IRS rate for business purposes.

Compensation & Benefits:

NC Child offers a competitive salary and benefits package including health and dental insurance paid sick days vacation paid family leave and a commitment to professional development. Learn more about our benefits on our career page. The hiring range for this position is $76000-$95000 depending on training and experience.

To Apply:

Submit an application along with:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of 3 Professional References

NC Child is an equal opportunity employer and we encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Required Experience:

Director