Associate Director for Advocacy and Policy

If you are passionate about transforming communities with a mission-driven organization, then we have the opportunity for you!

The Associate Director for Advocacy and Policy, reporting to the Vice President for Advocacy and Public Policy will track and be responsible for federal issues/trends of importance to the implementation of programs which include unaccompanied children, refugees, and migration policy as well as work with the Vice President and senior Global Refuge leadership to help facilitate strategic policy priorities. This position is part of a team of professionals who together conduct and initiate policy and political analysis of key issues, prepare issue briefs, and convey institutional positions and activities to internal constituencies, Congress, the executive branch, and the public.

Global Refuge, formerly known as Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), is a nonprofit serving newcomers seeking safety, support, and a share in the American dream. Since 1939, we have welcomed those seeking refuge, upholding a legacy of compassion and grace for people in crisis. We walk alongside individuals, families, and children as they begin their new lives in the United States through our work in refugee resettlement, welcome and respite services for asylum seekers, economic empowerment and employment, and family unification for unaccompanied children. To date, we have served over 750,000 people from around the globe. Our comprehensive services leverage our extensive organizational expertise as well as Government, community, and faith partnerships.

Attracting and retaining the best talent is vital to our continued growth and we are proud to offer an excellent benefits package including:

• medical, dental, and vision available on the first day of employment,
• professional development, tuition reimbursement,
• generous paid time off including 20 days of vacation, 12 days of sick leave, 12 paid holidays,
• 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave and up to 12 weeks of fully paid FMLA leave,
• company 403(b) contribution of 3%, an additional 7% match which vests immediately,
• Family Building benefits for reproductive procedures, adoption/foster care assistance, and
• an annual wellness benefit that can be customized to support your personal needs including funding enrichment classes, gym memberships, and healthy eating plans (to name a few) all in an inclusive and progressive environment!

At Global Refuge, welcoming newcomers isn't just our duty-it's an inherent part of our identity, rooted in our Lutheran heritage and inspired values and serving as a testament to our unwavering commitment to those in search of refuge. Please join us as we make a difference in the lives of newcomers.

DUTIES

• Work with the Vice President for Advocacy and Public Policy and other Global Refuge staff to identify priority areas for systemic reform of programs which include refugees, unaccompanied children, and migration policy through legislative, agency, and other advocacy.
• Actively participate in alliance and partnership activities in the migration policy space.
• Develop and cultivate strategic connections between federal policymakers and staff in the legislative and executive branches and Global Refuge program experts to fulfill Global Refuge's mission.
• Collaborate with the Vice President and other pertinent Global Refuge staff to support educational opportunities that advance Global Refuge's policy impact and reputation as a thought leader.
• Conduct background research and political analysis on key policy issues.
• Prepare and coordinate the preparation of public testimony and other written advocacy materials and legislative proposals and drafts.
• Working in collaboration with the Vice President, coordinate and organize campaigns for systemic change.
• With the Global Refuge Advocacy and Policy team, track and synthesize congressional hearings, mark-ups, and other developments in areas that impact the migration policy arena.
• Enhance institutional policy impact through coordination of site visits and observation experiences for policymakers to Global Refuge direct service and network affiliates.
• Collaborate with the Vice President and other Global Refuge staff to identify matters that may be ripe for other methods of advocacy, including impact litigation.
• Serve and speak occasionally in public forums on behalf of Global Refuge advocating for policy changes and resources that support the immigrant community.
• Engage in community outreach and public speaking engagements to elevate Global Refuge's mission and programs.
• Manage interns and junior Advocacy and Policy staff as appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in Social Work, International Relations, Public Administration, or law degree and 8 years of experience in a migration-related field or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum of 5 years of managerial experience.
• An in-depth understanding of unaccompanied children in migration is required along with a deep understanding of refugees, and the undocumented immigrant community.
• Minimum of 5 years experience advocating on behalf of refugees, immigrants, and unaccompanied children
• Passion for program improvement and advancing equity and access.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing complex advocacy programs/campaigns with measurable outcomes.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of mentoring younger staff or colleagues.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Excellent strategic judgment, the ability to spot and seize opportunities, and the desire to be part of a collaborative team.
• Ability to serve as a registered federal lobbyist on behalf of the institution.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and edit materials for publication, web posting, and internal briefings, including biographic information on elected officials and other stakeholders, and presentations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage competing and shifting demands in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• High level of attention to detail and ability to write effectively on a deadline.
• Ability to work occasionally after hours and on weekends, as needed.
• Ability to build relationships with external stakeholders (including legislators and their staff, advocates, and individuals impacted by our issues) and think creatively about how we can support and advance their efforts.
• Experience with legislative drafting is preferred but not required.

Global Refuge is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We participate in E-Verify.

We offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package in an innovative and rewarding work environment. Salaries are based on the latest market data and reflect the education, skills, and requirements for the role. Differentials may exist based on the region and language abilities. Global Refuge has been welcoming newcomers since 1939. Learn more at globalrefuge.org.