Policy Coordinator

Job Summary

Conducts public policy/economic analysis and research, monitors legislation and policy at local state and federal levels, assists in administration, coordination and staffing of select Chamber policy committees while representing Chamber in various roles within the community and government. Frequent interaction with Chamber policy committee members and leaders. Provides administrative support to the International & Public Affairs Department and reports directly to the Director of Public Affairs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Research and analyze policy issues, legislation, and regulations on a local, state, and federal level to determine impact on business community and region at large.

• Track and flag policy issues of Chamber interest as they are heard throughout the legislative process at the local, state and federal level

• Support Director of Public Affairs on assigned committees and policy areas (including setting committee agendas, securing speakers, monitoring positions and administrative duties).

• Lead policy initiatives as assigned

• Work closely with public agencies and legislative staff to analyze and interpret legislation, policy issues and data.

• Draft correspondence and other documents to Chamber members, committee members, elected, and community officials.

• Develop Chamber positions and policy statements and work strategically to reach successful outcomes on those issues. 

• Regularly interact with Chamber members, elected officials and civic leaders.

• Attend and participate in community and government meetings and hearings.

• Testify before city, county, state boards, commissions and committees (will require registration as a lobbyist) and when necessary, coordinate with partner organizations.

• Represent Chamber on external committees, partners and coalitions, at other organizations, and at community functions.

• Serve as a public policy resource to Chamber members and staff.

• Support the organization in attracting prospective members

• Assist in planning and coordination of annual delegation trips to Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

• Provides administrative support at meetings, including taking notes and recording minutes as requested, and may be required to speak publicly on behalf of Chamber/members.

• Attend community and government meetings as needed. 

• Attend various Chamber of Commerce events that may occur outside of normal business hours, when necessary.

• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, or related field preferred.

• 1-3 years of related experience

• California residency

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential.

• Demonstrated ability to research legislation and develop policy recommendations.

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal government operations, legislative process and policy issues strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated commitment to keeping up to date on local, state and federal issues as they relate to the business community. 

• Demonstrated ability to write policy briefs, white papers, position papers, and correspondence independently

• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret news articles, reports, government documents, and briefings for understanding of current issues.

• Demonstrated ability to think analytically about issues and express ideas clearly.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to interact with co-workers, board members, elected officials, policy committee members and the public in a professional manner.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently with limited supervision under pressure of deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Flexibility to respond to changing priorities

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Availability for early morning meetings and other events outside of traditional work hours (including weekends and evenings)