Position Summary
The Manager, Special Projects and Government Relations will expand UJA's government and external relations efforts by cultivating relationships with elected officials, government agencies, community leaders, coalition partners, and lay leadership. This role leads advocacy initiatives, public policy campaigns, and special projects that advance UJA's strategic priorities. The Manager will also plan high-profile events, mission days, initiatives and programs while serving as a key liaison across UJA departments, network partners, policymakers, and community stakeholders.
Major Responsibilities
- Develop and execute advocacy, government relations, and public policy initiatives in partnership with lay leaders, lobbyists, elected officials, coalition partners, and UJA network agencies.
- Cultivate and strengthen relationships with elected officials, government agencies, civic leaders, and strategic partners at the local, state, and federal levels.
- Identify and pursue new opportunities and initiatives for government engagement, coalition building, and external partnerships that advance UJA's mission.
- Plan and manage mission days, legislative visits, briefings, public programs, and events involving government and community leaders.
- Support and help manage the Government Relations Council, fostering member engagement and strengthening relationships with policymakers.
- Engage and mobilize lay leaders in advocacy campaigns, legislative outreach, educational programming, and civic engagement initiatives.
- Lead and support special projects that expand UJA's external relationships, including cross-community engagement, political outreach, interdepartmental initiatives, and other strategic priorities.
- Manage communications with elected officials, government staff, lay leaders, community partners, and other stakeholders to ensure consistent messaging and effective engagement.
- Monitor legislative and policy developments and recommend strategic advocacy opportunities aligned with UJA's priorities.
Qualifications and Competencies
- Minimum of five years of experience in government relations, public affairs, advocacy, public policy, or a related field.
- Strong knowledge of New York City and New York State government.
- Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent writing, research, and project management abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple initiatives and build partnerships across diverse stakeholders.
- Bachelor's degree required.
Please submit two writing samples.
Salary Information
The salary range for this role is $110,000-$115,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications listed above.
Reporting Line:
This role reports to the Director, Government and External Relations and is a hybrid position, with a set three days/week in office.
Equal Opportunity EmployerThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Skills Required
- Minimum of five years of experience in government relations, public affairs, advocacy, public policy, or a related field.
- Strong knowledge of New York City and New York State government.
- Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent writing, research, and project management abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple initiatives and build partnerships across diverse stakeholders.
- Bachelor's degree.
- Submission of two writing samples.
What We Do
UJA-Federation of New York is the largest local philanthropy in the world. For more than 100 years, we’ve brought New Yorkers together to solve some of the most pressing problems facing our community. Thanks to our network of hundreds of non-profits, we can leverage our expertise across any number of areas — including health and human services, arts and culture, and education — to care for Jews everywhere and New Yorkers of all backgrounds, respond to crises close to home and far away, and shape our Jewish future. Our reach extends from New York to Israel to nearly 70 other countries around the world, touching 4.5 million people each year. We’re looking for smart, talented, driven people who haven’t met a challenge that’s too big to conquer. Whether you’re a recent college graduate or a seasoned professional, we offer a wide array of opportunities for people of every discipline. Whether your passion is government relations, fundraising, data analysis, marketing, IT, accounting, graphic design, or community planning — there’s something here for you. We’re operating on a hybrid work model: three set days in the office and two days remote. At UJA, respect and inclusion are the cornerstones of our organizational culture. We are committed to advancing an environment where people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives can be their authentic selves and where every voice is heard and valued. We know that our diversity makes us stronger, more effective, and more compassionate. That is why we’re committed to continuing our education and awareness as we look to create a more inclusive workplace, one that’s best prepared to meet the needs of the diverse communities we proudly serve. UJA is an equal opportunity employer.
Why Work With Us
Do you want to come to work every day feeling like you’re changing the world? Are you a bold, creative, results-oriented thinker? Do you thrive in a warm, supportive work environment? Then check out UJA.
