We all face challenges and transitions in our lives, and when we do, we must be able to count on the strength of community for support. For the people of Los Angeles, Jewish Family Service LA (JFSLA) is that trusted source of support. We are a comprehensive network of services that welcomes individuals and families of all ages and identities to our full spectrum of care. Our highly trained staff and volunteers work closely with individuals and their loved ones to problem-solve and guide them on their paths to safety, security, wellness, and fulfillment.

JFSLA staff share in our mission and work towards our goals with the highest level of responsibility, professionalism, and integrity. JFS demonstrates our commitment to our staff by offering a comprehensive benefits package and a nurturing environment.

JFSLA is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness. In recruiting for our team, we seek the unique contributions that individuals can bring from all backgrounds. We strive for a diverse team in order to better serve our clients and ensure our excellence as an organization in identifying, designing and delivering solutions.

Be part of our commitment and join our family. For more information on our philosophy and services, please tour our website www.jfsla.org

The Senior Director of Policy & Government Relations will lead the local and state policy advocacy activities for Jewish Family Service Los Angeles through direct lobbying and strategic relationship building with key local and state officials, advocacy coalitions, and partner organizations. The Senior Director will advocate for increased resources and advance the JFSLA policy agenda of combating food insecurity, providing family and senior services, mental health services, addressing intimate partner violence, and in support of anti-poverty initiatives.

As a member of the senior leadership team, the Senior Director will collaborate and coordinate across the agency to ensure policy and advocacy priorities align with JFSLA strategic goals, organizational core values, and the needs of clients served. The Senior Director will work closely with the CEO and the Chief Community Engagement Officer (CCEO) and will report to the CCEO as a crucial member of the Community Engagement team.

Responsibilities and Essential Functions:

• Design and implement a strategic legislative and policy program at the state and local levels to advance the JFSLA agenda of combating food insecurity, providing family and senior services, mental health services, addressing intimate partner violence, and in support of anti-poverty initiatives.
• Execute the JFSLA legislative agenda utilizing appropriate strategies and tactics, including lobbying members of the Los Angeles City Council, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, California State Legislature, their staff, and the governor’s office.
• Remain informed and responsive in strategy and communication to policy developments that impact the sector and present opportunities for JFSLA to take a leadership position.
• Analyze and track legislation, work with partners to draft legislation, and prepare and deliver written and oral presentations.
• Advise JFSLA executive staff and the Board of Directors on developments in local, state and federal policies that may affect JFSLA clients, programs, and funding.
• Build trusted relationships with elected and appointed officials, agency decision-makers, the governor’s office, lobbyists and community stakeholders by providing clear, fact-based analysis and resources.
• Staff the Board Public Policy Committee and engage JFSLA Board Members in advocacy work through the Public Policy Committee, advocacy campaigns and direct meetings with elected officials.
• Actively participate and take leadership roles in Jewish community advocacy collaboratives through the Jewish Public Affairs Committee (JPAC) at the State level, the Advocacy Committee of the Network of Jewish Human Services Agencies (NJHSA) at the national level and working with the Jewish Federation at the local level.
• Coordinate and collaborate with JFSLA Community Engagement colleagues to facilitate the voices of JFSLA partners and constituencies being heard by decisionmakers at the state and local level
• Prepare written materials in collaboration with advocacy partners and JFS Communications department, including action alerts, talking points, issue briefs, and policy reports.
• Manage requests for data and information, policy analysis, and other requests from elected official offices, government agencies and other stakeholders.
• Represent JFSLA in various community and stakeholder policy groups, build and lead coalitions with diverse stakeholders to advance shared policy goals, and work in partnership with other organizations.
• In partnership with colleagues, build and maintain relationships with public and private partners to help broaden JFSLA engagement of the community and other stakeholders.
• Supervise a Public Policy Associate who also works collaboratively within the Community Engagement department.
• Serve as a member of the agency’s senior management group, working closely with agency executives and the Board of Directors on issues related to advocacy.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Chief Community Engagement Officer.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred, in Public Administration, Urban Planning, Public Policy, Law, Communications, or related field.
• At least 8 years of professional experience in local, state, or national legislative, political or policy advocacy work.
• Commitment to JFSLA core values of excellence, compassion, integrity, caring and dignity and serving everyone in the Los Angeles community, of all backgrounds and identities.
• Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities.
• In depth understanding of the legislative and budget process, and political strategic planning.
• Exceptional analytical, research, writing and oral advocacy skills, as well as the ability to articulate complex issues and to communicate them effectively to a variety of audiences.
• Ability to work across functions with both internal and external stakeholders and partners.
• Problem solver and strong collaborator with exceptional interpersonal skills and track record of working with senior leaders.
• Self-aware and authentic leader with the ability to listen, guide and support people to achieve common goals.
• Flexible, creative, energetic, and results-oriented initiative and a desire to learn, pitch- in, and anticipate new projects,
• Knowledge of and experience working in the social service sector a plus.

Jewish Family Service is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran.