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.
The Director, Policy Development is responsible for a portfolio of policy issues that guide and support ACS CAN’s advocacy agenda at the state, federal and local levels. Portfolios encompass a wide range of complex issues that are a priority for ACS CAN and the position requires senior level policy and/or legislative expertise in the key issue areas. This position works collaboratively across ACS and ACS CAN to develop and communicate clear public policy positions and guidance.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Oversee a portfolio of ACS CAN’s priority policy issues, provide thought leadership to identify emerging issues that will impact the organization’s advocacy positions, and lead development of policy recommendations; (50%)
Develop special reports and undertake major projects that are used to educate and persuade policymakers on key health issues; (15%)
Develop strategic partnerships and work collaboratively with external organizations and partners to advance ACS CAN’s policy advocacy; (10%)
Analyze state and federal legislative proposals and federal regulations, develop written responses and make recommendation to state and federal colleagues; (20%)
Serve as a policy expert for media inquiries and for ACS CAN-sponsored coalitions; and (5%)
EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum Degree Required: Bachelor's Degree
Preferred Degree: Master's Degree or Juris Doctorate
Years of experience: 10+ years experience, applied policy and/or legislative experience at the state or federal level highly desired; experience with a nonprofit advocacy organization of benefit; demonstrated public policy experience and analysis, and knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes at the local, state and federal levels of government.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:
Excellent verbal and written communications skills and interpersonal communications skills
Experience with collaborative, complex organizations
Expertise in public policy analysis and support of local, state and federal legislative issues
Ability to work in a highly charged and competitive political environment
Must be able to manage nationwide efforts involving multiple priorities, be comfortable with deadlines, and maintain a flexible, pragmatic approach to work requirements
Able to foster professional, interdependent relationships with other staff to achieve mutually satisfactory approaches and products
Experience with designing/formatting presentations
Demonstrated knowledge of areas of portfolio responsibility
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
Some travel may be involved
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
N/A
The starting rate is $150,000 to $170,000. The final candidate's relevant experience/skills will be considered before an offer is extended. Actual starting pay will vary based on non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, geographic location, experience, skills, specialty, and education.
ACS CAN provides staff a generous paid time off policy; medical, dental, retirement benefits, wellness programs, and professional development programs to enhance staff skills. Further details on our benefits can be found on our careers site at: jobs.cancer.org/benefits. We are a proud equal opportunity employer.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree
- 10+ years of experience
- Applied policy and/or legislative experience at the state or federal level
- Public policy analysis experience and knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes at local, state, and federal levels
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
- Experience working with collaborative, complex organizations
- Ability to work in a highly charged and competitive political environment
- Ability to manage nationwide efforts involving multiple priorities and deadlines
- Experience designing and formatting presentations
- Master's degree or Juris Doctorate
- Experience with a nonprofit advocacy organization
What We Do
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate. Founded in 2001, it works to reduce the cancer burden by advocating for evidence-based public policies. Its mission is to eliminate cancer as a major health problem by advancing policies that support cancer prevention, detection, treatment, survivorship, and equitable access to care.
