Managing Director & Deputy Director for Policy and Programs
Position | Managing Director & Deputy Director for Policy and Programs
Location | Albany, NY
Schedule | Full-time w/ remote work flexibility 1-2 days/wk
We are seeking candidates able to commit to being a daily, in-person presence in EANY’s HQ office in Albany, NY for 3-4 days per week; Remote work flexibility 1-2 days/wk (Th and Fri).
Travel | Minimal, predominantly within New York State
Your Role in EANY’s Next Chapter
Environmental Advocates NY seeks a Managing Director and Deputy Director for Policy & Program to oversee the organization’s Albany-based staff, day-to-day operations, and full policy program, serving as a central member of senior leadership and driving the development and execution of our annual and long-term legislative and regulatory priorities. The successful candidate will serve as the organization’s most public-facing leader in Albany among senior officials, organizations, funders, and the media, and report to the Executive Director. It is a full-time, exempt position.
This position incorporates three interconnected roles:
- Chief Operations Officer | Ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of EANY and cultivation of a dynamic workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent. Specifically this will include leading fellow senior staff and the Executive Director in the supervision of all staff, with the specific remit for managing staff in Albany and the policy team, whether in Albany or based remotely, overseeing budget planning and decisions, managing, delegating, and generally accounting for administrative follow through on decisions and identified next steps, compliance with key rules and procedures, and any and all reporting (i.e. JCOPE) required by EANY’s partners and/or laws.
- Policy Leader | Leading the policy team in the creation of a multi-year policy roadmap for the next phase of EANY’s strategic planning and mission advancement; the identification of key legislative and regulatory milestones to convene and mobilize partners; the generation of meaningful ways to gauge the policy team’s incremental impacts; ensuring the cohesion, high ambition, research-based pragmatism, and mission-alignment of the policy team's efforts; and finding avenues and partnerships to expand EANY’s influence beyond New York State to additional states with strong environmental and climate leadership.
- Resources & Capacity-Builder | Strengthening EANY through fundraising, with a focus on building, owning, and handing off (as appropriate) key foundation relationships and responsibility for grant application processes, strategic partnerships, thought leadership, and event participation and/or contributions to grow our presence in New York State, the media, and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
Managing Director
The key responsibilities associated with this aspect of the role are inseparable from our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI), enhancing our operational effectiveness and advocacy impact. Key responsibilities include:
- Representing EANY at key events in Albany, articulating our mission and goals.
- Managing day-to-day operations and supporting the Director of Finance.
- Leading the development and submission of grant materials, aligning with organizational priorities.
- Overseeing equitable recruitment and professional development processes to nurture and advance our staff.
- Collaborating with finance, HR, and executive leadership to address HR and personnel issues promptly.
- Contributing to the planning of program budgets and annual financial strategies.
- Organizing biannual team outings and an optional annual retreat to foster team cohesion.
Deputy Director, Policy & Programs
Key responsibilities associated with this aspect of the role involve steering EANY’s environmental and climate policy programs. This role demands a strategic thinker with a robust track record in policy development and advocacy. Responsibilities include:
- Leading the creation and implementation of policy strategies with multi-year timeframes, ensuring alignment with EANY’s mission and year-to-year priorities.
- Supervising and mentoring policy staff, promoting a collaborative and efficient workplace.
- Developing strategic partnerships to enhance policy objectives and organizational impact.
- Managing policy outputs, including flagship publications like the Untapped Potential Report Series and annual environmental scorecards.
- Serving as a key advocate and relationship builder, enhancing EANY’s influence and extending the reach of our policy, brand, and budget in Albany and beyond.
Qualifications
- Advanced Policy Expertise & NY State-Specific Insight: Minimum 10 years of leadership in policy, particularly in climate or environmental sectors, with substantial knowledge of New York State's political landscape. Policy expertise in related fields (e.g., housing, entrepreneurship, finance) will also be considered.
- Proven JEDI Leadership: Demonstrated experience in applying justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion principles to define clear roles and foster an equitable workplace. Must have a track record of implementing inclusive hiring practices and advocating for bias-free environments.
- Strategic & Innovative Management: At least 7 years of experience managing diverse teams, with a strong focus on strategic planning, problem-solving, and executing comprehensive campaign strategies.
- Relationship-Building & Communication Skills: Exceptional ability in building supportive team environments and managing external relations, ensuring all communications and policy negotiations are handled with tact and professionalism.
- Commitment to Continuous Learning & Development: A genuine dedication to personal and professional growth with a focus on equity, inclusivity, and sustainable management practices. Must be open to feedback and proactive in pursuing relevant training opportunities.
Other Requirements
- An undergraduate degree and residence in Albany, NY, are essential.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive Salary | $175k-$225k/Year + Benefits
- Benefits | Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance; retirement benefits; generous paid time off; and summer Fridays off in July and August.
- Professional Development | Tailored opportunities to build your profile as a leader and expert in your field; negotiable stipend for coaching, media training, coursework, and more, to enhance your skills and career progression within EANY and beyond.
- Workplace Culture | Committed to creating a safe, respectful, diverse and joyful environment where all feel welcome and set up for success.
- Relocation Support | Available for candidates willing to relocate to Albany on a full-time basis.
About EANY
Environmental Advocates NY is dedicated to ensuring a secure climate, pristine water, and flourishing communities for everyone. For over half a century, we have passionately served the people of New York, standing at the forefront of each major environmental milestone achieved by the state. Founded in 1969, Environmental Advocates NY is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.