Advocacy Advisor. Washington, D.C.. Posting Date: 11/19/2025. Deadline: 12/02/2025
Role Title: Advocacy Advisor
Contract Type: Regular
Reporting To: Director, US Policy
Program/Department/Unit Name: US Geo Lead
Location: Washington, D.C.
Team Name: US Geo Lead
Role Purpose
The Advocacy Advisor will have significant experience with the US Congress and experience working on a range of domestic policies. Collaborating closely with colleagues in Programs, and Communications, as well as relevant outside partners and US government officials, they will support the work of the US team in advocating for OSF priorities in Congress.
Key responsibilities
Support OSF engagement with congressional offices on a wide variety of OSF priorities and develop and manage key relationships with senior policymakers, legislative staff and Members;
Develop strategies and materials to move US policy on OSF priorities; including but not limited to position papers, letters, background memoranda, legislation, amendments, congressional letters, talking points, hearing questions, congressional record statements, and op-eds;
Maintain and build a network of external stakeholders including but not limited to partners, grantees, relevant NGOs, think tanks, and subject-matter experts.
Solicit, vet, and recommend consultancies and grants and evaluate grantee organizations;
Interpret the US political environment and serve as a resource for other OSF opportunities and contribute to multi-program efforts in relevant areas;
Design advocacy strategies for direct engagement with US officials together with Advocacy Advisors embedded in the Opportunities, and other OSF offices and partners as needed; and lead on delivery as appropriate
The ideal candidate (essential criteria)
Excellent knowledge of the U.S. political process and policy formulation infrastructure, specifically the role of Congress and the inner workings of Congress;
Strong understanding of the media and civil society and how they interact with Congress and the Executive Branch;
Strong knowledge of at least one main area of US domestic policy (health care, labor, etc.) and experience with other domestic policy issues;
Knowledge of how to develop and implement a strategic, organized and/or sustained effort to influence decisionmakers and those who influence them to enact or shape specific laws, public policies, practices, norms and/or attitudes in support of open society.
The ability to communicate and deliver information verbally in a clear, concise, and compelling manner;
The ability and skill to express ideas, request actions and/or formulate plans or policies using writing skills;
Willingness to travel, as needed;
Establishes and nurtures relationships with external parties; exercises considerable discretion, often on sensitive topics; works independently of supervisor in carrying out most tasks, except matters concerning strategic direction;
Commitment to continuous learning and growth in the areas of diversity, equality, inclusion, antiracism, and social justice; and
Commitment to listening and working with humility and ways of working that are respectful to all people and that are respectful to all people and support space and voice for all diverse perspectives in our workplace.
What we offer
Exceptional opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact; from a generous annual professional development allowance for every employee to onsite training and learning conversations with visiting experts.
Excellent benefits and perks to promote well-being and a healthy work-life balance, including:
Generous time off and flexible work arrangements.
Employer-paid health insurance *and dental plans for individuals and families (no employee contribution required).
Exceptional retirement savings plan (non-contributory for employees) and life insurance.