Director of Community and Government Relations

Orangewood Foundation•Santa Ana, CA

2h•$110,000 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The organization seeks an exceptional Director of Community and Government Relations to manage our dual mission of advancing our impact through robust community engagement and partnerships while enhancing our role as a leading advocate for youth and young adults in Orange County. This is a senior leadership position responsible for managing and executing the organization’s external relations strategy, encompassing both high-level government relations and the management of community engagement, volunteer, and in-kind donation programs. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, this Director acts as a vital bridge, driving the public’s involvement, navigating complex political landscapes, and transforming the organization's mission into a movement that creates lasting positive impact.

Requirements

Political and Strategic Acumen: Proven ability to navigate complex legislative, media, and political landscapes, and develop strategies that align government affairs initiatives with organizational goals.
Communication Mastery: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including experience serving as an ambassador or spokesperson.
Stakeholder Relationship Management: Demonstrated success in cultivating and maintaining relationships with government officials, community leaders, corporate partners, and grassroots volunteers.
Program and Logistics Management: Ability to manage and supervise programmatic aspects, including volunteer recruitment, training, tracking, in-kind donation procurement, inventory management, and event coordination (e.g., annual drives).
Leadership and Team Management: Experience in supervising staff, fostering a culture of continuous enhancement and collaboration.
Financial and Data Management: Proficiency in budget management and ensuring data accuracy for internal/external reporting related to donor, volunteer, and programmatic activities.
Minimum 7-10 years of progressive experience in Development, Government Relations, Communications, and/or Community Engagement, preferably in a non-profit or political environment.
Bachelor's degree required, Master’s degree preferred.
Demonstrated experience and mastery of political acumen and fundraising/development.
Possess a valid California driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance.
Position requires DMV clearance.
Pre-employment screenings include criminal background check, FBI/DOJ fingerprinting, TB test, drug screen, and previous employment verification.
A Plum.io assessment is a required part of the application process, and your application will not be considered complete until the assessment is submitted.
Understanding of and passion for the Foundation’s mission, vision, and values.
Enjoys working directly with youth, volunteers, community partners, etc.
Passion for and enjoys working directly with TAY population.

Nice To Haves

Experience in or working with public office/elected role strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Government Relations: Develop and execute comprehensive non-partisan government affairs strategy to strengthen the organization's reputation as a leading advocate for youth and young adults in Orange County.
Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and other public stakeholders resulting in supportive policies/laws, revenue or grants, and/or in-kind support.
Monitor legislative developments related to youth and young adults, housing, homelessness, social services, employment, and other key issues and oversee organization’s strategy and response to key milestones such as federal, state, and local budget processes and bill/policy development, including preparing concise, strategic briefing materials for executive leadership.
Serve as an ambassador of organization and represent Orangewood Foundation at community events including Hill Day, Lobby Day, and conferences.
Develop a cohesive approach to government affairs that supports the organization’s strategic and programmatic goals while also integrating the philanthropic goals of Orangewood.
Community Engagement and Program Capacity: Spearhead all community capacity-building efforts, ensuring the highest level of program standards for all volunteer and in-kind donation programs.
Oversee volunteer recruitment, training, tracking, and recognition, and grow the organization’s stream of in-kind and cash donations.
Develop strategic partnerships with corporate stakeholders and influencers to align with the mission and build sustainable support for programs.
Coordinate collaborative partners and plan major annual community events, such as the backpack/school supply drive, Winter Wonderland, and ongoing in-kind donation needs.
Management and Strategy: Ensure inclusive organizational engagement and clear communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Manage the assigned annual budget, oversee relevant data accuracy and reporting, and supervise a team that includes the Community Engagement Manager and Community Engagement Coordinator.
Serve as a member of the Development Department’s leadership team, working collaboratively with Development Operations, Major Gifts, Marketing, and Institutional Giving to execute the annual and strategic goals of the department.
Develop and maintain strong partnership with Orangewood’s Program Directors to foster cross-departmental trust and collaboration.