Reporting to the Managing Director of Audubon Connecticut (A-CT), the Policy Associate will be responsible for helping to execute public policy functions for this program of the National Audubon Society, focusing predominately at the state level, but also the federal and local levels (as needed). They will also advocate on behalf of A-CT to local, state, and federal government officials, including agency staff and appointed and elected officials.
The Policy Associate works closely under the direction of the Managing Director and other key staff implement a comprehensive policy strategy that helps advance the conservation priorities and objectives of A-CT. In addition, the Associate will act as an ambassador of the organization, closely partnering with local Audubon chapters, local and regional coalitions, strategic partners throughout the Atlantic Flyway, and the National Policy Office on shared priorities to grow the organization’s advocacy army and execute on other critical goals for the organization.
The Policy Associate will be primarily based in Hartford, CT during the legislative season, however additional statewide travel will also be necessary, including trips to the Bent of the River Audubon Center in Southbury, CT.
- In close collaboration with the Managing Director and other members of the A-CT leadership team, implement a comprehensive policy strategy at the state and federal levels in support of A-CT’s conservation priorities, programs, sanctuaries and centers. Serve as an effective and passionate advocate for the strategy with internal and external audiences.
- Help maintain and raise the profile and visibility of A-CT as a leader in conservation policy efforts; foster existing and build creative and enduring alliances and partnerships to support A-CT’s efforts.
- As directed, identify potential funding sources to support A-CT’s programs at the state, federal, and local levels.
- Track and develop legislation at the state and federal levels of importance to A-CT, including the annual state and federal budget processes, and be an effective advocate for A-CT priorities.
- Assist with regulatory issues at the state, federal, and local (as needed) levels of importance to A-CT, collaborate with appropriate staff, and serve as an effective advocate.
- Coordinate with the Managing Director and National Communications and Policy staff to create timely and effective action alerts on our federal and state priorities to communicate to and engage Audubon’s membership base.
- Provide real-time content in support of A-CT policy objectives, including posting on the A-CT website and social media platforms.
- Along with Audubon’s retained lobbyists, develop and maintain productive relationships with key State-elected and agency officials/leaders, as well as the CT Congressional delegation and federal agencies critical to A-CT goals.
- Work closely and effectively with consultants that A-CT may retain for additional lobbying or policy work; act as a liaison on projects and coordinate with the Managing Director to report updates to the A-CT leadership team and A-CT Board.
- Other duties as assigned by the Managing Director.
- 3-5 years' progressive, professional experience as a public policy advocate, including demonstrated success on the State or federal level. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
- Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills required, as well as superior communication and interpersonal skills.
- A self-starter, one with strong organizational, time, and project management skills.
- Ambition to grow the capacity of A-CT’s policy team and the skill-set to realize that goal.
- Ability to work strategically and tactically (simultaneously), prioritize workloads, and collaborate across a highly matrixed organization.
- Familiarity with the environmental conservation issues at the state and federal level; expertise preferred.
- Experience in working in partnership with a network of local chapters and invested grassroots leaders.
- Ability to work independently and in a team-based environment. Must be comfortable working with diverse public audiences, and possess a keen interest in engaging new constituents.
- External relations experience with fundraising or donor cultivation a plus.
- Tech-savviness, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, as well as web-based and social media tools, required. Comfort with Salesforce not required, but preferred.
- A flexible approach to work, and ability to travel for work when needed, sometimes on weekends. A valid driver’s license is also necessary.
- Demonstrated interest in conservation and the mission of the National Audubon Society.