Position Overview:
The New California Coalition (NCC) seeks an experienced and strategic Director of Policy to lead the organization’s solutions work. This will involve research, coalition building, policy development, legislative and administrative advocacy among other activities. This role will focus on developing and executing a comprehensive policy solutions strategy that drives outcomes to respond to the key priorities of the California public including in our “core four” policy areas of Housing, Homelessness, Water & Energy, and Middle Class Jobs. The ideal candidate will have a background in policy development, legislative and administrative advocacy, ideally at the state level in California. The Director of Policy will collaborate closely with leadership, policy, investor relations, and partnerships teams to shape and execute NCC’s policy solutions agenda.
Key Responsibilities:
● Lead and manage policy task forces: Convene and coordinate NCC’s policy task forces, working with internal leadership, external chairs, and subject-matter experts to shape a comprehensive and pragmatic solutions agenda addressing California’s most pressing challenges.
● Develop and drive a solutions agenda: Craft actionable, evidence-based policy proposals in NCC’s core issue areas—Housing, Homelessness, Water & Energy, and Middle Class Jobs—that respond to public needs and advance bipartisan, durable solutions.
● Advocate for policy adoption and implementation: In partnership with NCC leadership, coalition partners, and lobbying team, lead efforts to steward NCC’s solutions through legislative, administrative, and regulatory processes, from bill introduction to implementation and oversight
● Build and manage strategic coalitions: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with partner organizations, advocacy groups, business leaders, labor, community stakeholders, and public officials to build broad, cross-sector support for NCC’s policy priorities.
● Monitor and respond to emerging issues: Stay abreast of state and local policy developments, political dynamics, and public opinion trends; proactively identify opportunities and risks for NCC’s agenda and adapt strategies accordingly.
● Oversee policy research and analysis: Manage the production of policy briefs, white papers, and legislative analyses to inform NCC leadership, partners, and the public about key issues and policy proposals.
● Support stakeholder and investor communications: Partner with the investor relations and communications teams to articulate the policy agenda to funders, the media, and the public, showcasing impact and building confidence in NCC’s leadership on solutions.
● Represent NCC externally: Serve as a public voice for the organization’s policy agenda, representing NCC in coalitions, legislative hearings, public forums, and media opportunities.
Qualifications:
● Background in policy research, development and/or advocacy ideally at the California state level. Committee experience preferred.
● Proven track record of developing and executing successful policy solution strategies within government or at organizations that directly interface with policymakers.
● Ability to come up to speed on a variety of different policy areas and on the minutiae of different policy areas and advocacy processes.
● Strong communications and interpersonal skills to navigate the complexities of coalition building and the policy advocacy process.
● Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
● Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
● Passion for and commitment to the mission of the New California Coalition and its work in shaping a better future for California.
Location & Travel:
The ideal candidate is based in or relatively proximate to Sacramento to allow for regular in-person participation in various aspects of the policy solution process. Regular travel within California will be required for events and meetings.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and interest in the position to Lex Olbrei, Chief of Staff, at lex@newcaliforniacoalition.org.