The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is the nation's leading cancer advocacy organization. Together with our charitable partner, the American Cancer Society, we work in Congress, state legislatures and local jurisdictions to support evidence-based policy and legislative solutions designed to eliminate cancer as a major health problem. Based in Washington, DC with offices throughout the country, ACS CAN works to encourage elected officials and candidates to make cancer a top national priority.
Plan, develop and manage a comprehensive Advocacy program for Texas, assist volunteer efforts in support of Advocacy priorities related the American Cancer Society’s Program of Work, and provide content expert advice and counsel to ACS CAN leadership on legislative issues impacting the state of Texas.
Regular and frequent contact with federal, state and local elected officials and other decision-makers, as well as with state coalitions and other organizations to implement legislative and grassroots strategies in support of the American Cancer Society’s Program of Work.
Strong ability to develop and execute a fundraising strategy to build relationships with sponsors, corporations and donors.
- Under the direction of ACS CAN, sets annual state advocacy priorities with Texas and Region Managing Director.
- Keeps updated with existing and proposed legislation, policies and regulations that impact the American Cancer Society’s Program of Work and the fight against cancer, and initiates support for ACS policy priorities by developing and managing productive, nonpartisan relationships with policymakers and administrative bodies at the local, state, and federal levels.
- Supervises, motivates and evaluates a team of staff members, providing on-going feedback, coaching and development.
- Provides training and direction to volunteers to serve as policy advocates on advocacy priorities.
- Execute policy forums and special events to advance the mission.• Strong level and understanding of fundraising.
- Leads efforts in support of ACS CAN income development and membership recruitment in Texas.
- Serves as a member of the Region Leadership Team to advance the organizational goals for the state.
- Works with contract lobbyist and media advocacy specialist hired for policy initiatives.
- Prepares lobbying reports and other advocacy updates.
- Works with coalitions to ensure success of advocacy related initiatives.
- Ensure measurement, tracking and evaluations of policy campaigns and advocacy programs to ensure effective utilization of organizational resources, including staff and volunteer time
- Leads by example, personally demonstrating the behaviors expected of staff throughout the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network.
- Makes business-based decisions; maintains accurate files, submits timely and accurate reports; meets timelines, follows through; apprises supervisor of status; provides viable & innovative solutions to problems; attends meetings/trainings, adheres to approved policy/procedure, represents the organization in a professional manner; makes effective presentations
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- A minimum of 8 years government or private sector lobbying experience and in-depth knowledge of and experience with legislative and administrative policy making.
Demonstrates the following Direct Lobbying competencies:
- Decision Quality - Makes good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward.
- Strategic Mindset - Sees ahead to future possibilities and translates them into breakthrough strategies.
- Action Oriented - Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
- Drives Results - Consistently achieves results, even under tough circumstances.
- Interpersonal Savvy - Relates openly and comfortably with diverse groups of people.
- Persuades - Uses compelling arguments to gain the support and commitment of others.
- Instills Trust - Gains the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
- Being Resilient - Rebounds from setbacks and adversity when facing difficult situations.
- Skills:
- Experience in working on political and/or policy advocacy campaigns.
- Public policy experience.
- Ability to manage and lead a team.
- Proven fundraising experience.
- Strong volunteer management skills.
- Remains composed under stress, handles self in a professional manner at all times and takes personal responsibility for delivering on personal and organizational commitments.
- Ability to respond to changing circumstances and priorities in a focused manner.
- Ability to work independently with minimum direction.
- Ability to coordinate and implement multiple responsibilities, projects and priorities.
- Acts in the best interest of the organization and enhances the image of the American Cancer Society in the public eye
- Utilizes available technology to perform position responsibilities.
- Provides strong and effective verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated ability to work with others.
- Establishes effective working relationships with diverse individuals and communities.
- Manages resources effectively and efficiently.
- Applies and follows American Cancer Society policies and guidelines.
- Provides high quality customer service, both internally and externally.
- Completes work in a timely and efficient manner and ensures work is accurate.
SPECIALIZED TRAINING OR KNOWLEDGE:
- Staff management experience required. Volunteer management preferred.Position requires excellent writing and presentation abilities.
SPECIAL MENTAL OR PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to work some evenings and weekends and some overnights
- Regular travel within Texas and some national travel• Reliable transportation required