Job Summary:
The Director of Policy and Advocacy at FHI 360 leads multiple workstreams and teams to mobilize foreign assistance resources and influence key U.S. government decision-makers, including Congress, to support critical policy priorities. This role involves collaborating across departments to create and implement an integrated policy change plan and establish structures for monitoring progress. Key responsibilities include delivering results that align with high-profile organizational priorities, driving consensus, advising on strategic course corrections, and ensuring the team’s high performance. The Director also leads strategic planning and business development initiatives, focusing on non-U.S. government funding sources, to position FHI 360 as a leader in addressing global challenges like eroding social cohesion, public health threats, inequality, and climate change. Additionally, the Director will report to the Chief Impact Officer, and manage project budgets and donor relationships, ensuring alignment with project goals.
This position is expected to require 2-3 days per week in DC as well as 2-3 domestic and/or international travel events per year.
Responsibilities / Duties:
Complexity & Problem Solving:
Leads the development of the policy agenda in line with FHI 360’s strategic plan.
Manages a team of advocates advancing the policy agenda in line with organizational direction and donor agreements.
Advocates and builds partnerships with leaders across NGOs, research institutes, think tanks, private donors, and other key partners to influence US government policies.
Develops and leads the execution of advocacy strategies to support global foreign assistance and policy priorities.
Ensures coordination across FHI 360 operating units supporting federal policy and advocacy work.
Engages directly with policymakers, Members of Congress, their personal and committee staff, and key federal officials to support evidence-based funding, policies, and programs.
Leads team focused on U.S. Congressional relations, legislative, appropriations, and administration strategy.
Develops and proposes policy recommendations and implements legislative strategy on Capitol Hill.
Directs research conducted by junior staff and analyzes issues to develop policy positions.
Conceptualizes and manages the creation of materials for various audiences.
Develops and implements short- and long-term plans of action on issue areas.
Oversees the development of a global policy and advocacy communications plan, including delivery of a media outreach strategy.
Regularly updates and educates FHI 360 staff and others through documents and educational materials on strategies for Hill action.
Keeps FHI 360 informed of congressional members’ positions on issues.
Writes policy and reviews publications for accuracy and consistency.
Builds and leads coalitions and coalition task forces as needed.
Demonstrates strong problem-solving skills.
Strategizes and manages resources for successful project completion.
Discretion & Impact:
Strong understanding of the budget and appropriations process.
Understanding of racial and gender inequities exacerbating disparities.
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Strong leadership skills and project management.
Strong consultative and negotiation skills.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to strategize, plan, and manage resources.
Ability to motivate, influence, and collaborate with others.
Makes decisions with a significant impact on organizational outcomes.
Collaborates with organizational leadership.
Drives difficult conversations.
Advises on course corrections to achieve strategic goals.
Collaboration & Interaction:
Establishes and maintains contacts with Members of Congress, relevant staff, and key federal officials through joint letters, policy briefs, legislative proposals, Hill outreach, scheduling, and attending joint meetings.