Director of Policy Initiatives

State Policy Network

5d • $120,000 - $140,000

About The Position

State Policy Network is seeking a Director of Policy Initiatives to build and lead proactive, multi-state issue campaigns. The role turns knowledge of state policy and political landscapes into coordinated strategies that help affiliates achieve durable policy change. The Director will help develop a repeatable approach to campaign coordination, earning the trust of state leaders and providing counsel that partners can put into practice.

The position involves assessing policy landscapes, designing campaign strategies across multiple states, aligning affiliates and coalition partners around shared goals, and coordinating internal support. The Director also partners with senior program and policy leaders to develop funding narratives and manages contractor scopes, deliverables, and execution as campaign priorities evolve.

Requirements

• At least eight years of relevant experience in issue advocacy, policy, or government affairs.
• Strong understanding of how state-based organizations achieve policy wins.
• Strategic judgment to read political dynamics, identify significant opportunities, and turn complex landscapes into practical campaign plans.
• Relationship skills to earn trust across organizations, align competing interests, and influence people who do not report to you.
• Entrepreneurial self-starter who takes initiative, follows through, and owns outcomes.
• Submit a resume and cover letter detailing interest in the position, interest in SPN’s mission, compensation requirements, and travel availability.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with an SPN affiliate or another state-based advocacy organization.
• Political strategy, campaign experience, or work with elected officials.

Responsibilities

• Assess policy landscapes, including affiliate activity, legislative and regulatory fights, opposition strategies, and key stakeholders.
• Design multi-state campaign strategies and secure leadership approval and stakeholder alignment.
• Build trusted relationships with affiliates and coalition partners, understand their priorities, and align their strengths around shared policy goals.
• Establish a regular coordination rhythm with Communications and the Center for Practical Federalism to provide sustained internal campaign support.
• Partner with the Senior Director of Policy and Vice President of Programs to turn research and campaign plans into compelling funding narratives.
• Review and manage contractor scopes, deliverables, and execution, redirecting capacity as campaign priorities evolve.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed