Policy Research Communications and Executive Coordinator

University of Denver•Denver, CO

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Colorado Evaluation and Action Lab at the University of Denver was created under the leadership of the Governor’s Office to unlock data-informed solutions to our most pressing social problems. Working together with a broad range of government and community partners, we conduct research with rigor to obtain the best available evidence to inform policies, programs, and investments. Our goal is to leverage data to inform policy and practice, set the wheels in motion to achieve and sustain change, and position our partners to pursue additional, meaningful change for the communities they serve with the guidance of eight essential elements. Position Summary The Colorado Lab seeks to hire a Policy Research Communications and Executive Coordinator. This hybrid position leads the Labs day-to-day communications while providing executive coordination to Lab leadership. This role translates research and policy analysis into materials leadership and external audiences can act on quickly—drafting, editing, and designing content—and manages leaderships calendars, supports briefing preparation, and ensures follow-through on external commitments. The position also serves as backup coverage for core operations functions and requires reliable transportation for occasional, sometimes last minute, delivery of materials, supplies, and catering within the Denver metro area. Funding is secured through June 30, 2028, with the possibility of an extension based on funding.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in strategic and/or science communications, journalism, political science, public policy, or related social science field.
Two (2) years of professional experience in communications, policy, government affairs, research administration, nonprofit organizations, higher education, executive support, or a related environment.
Valid drivers license and reliable personal transportation.

Nice To Haves

Experience as a legislative aide or in a legislative/policy office.
Background in science communication and translating complex subjects into simple terms.
Experience supporting executive-level staff or event logistics in a research, government, or nonprofit setting.

Responsibilities

Identify communications opportunities across Lab projects and the LINC initiative; draft and design social media and other materials so leadership can review, react, and approve quickly.
Turn voice-over recorded remarks or draft notes from Lab leadership into structured, presentation-ready PowerPoint slide decks.
Design and lay out two-page briefs (“two-pagers”) that translate research and policy findings for policymaker audiences.
Edit Lab deliverables for readability, not just grammar—simplifying language, tightening structure, checking for internal consistency, and ensuring a non-partisan approach.
Edit Lab deliverables for accessibility and to match brand guidelines.
Edit grant proposals for alignment with RFP guidelines.
Make recommendations for improving Lab’s report templates to elevate the most important content in a deliverable.
Convert Excel charts and figures into polished, presentation-ready graphics.
Serve as the primary website administrator and manage social media channels, ensuring timely, professional, and informative posts.
Manage and prioritize Lab leaderships calendars, correspondence, and briefing preparation across internal and external commitments.
Assemble briefing packets ahead of external meetings — agendas, bios, background materials — for meetings with funders, legislators, and partner organizations.
Track action items and deadlines arising from leadership and partner meetings and follow up to ensure completion.
Coordinate travel logistics and itineraries for leadership, including expense reporting.
Serve as the first point of contact for external scheduling requests, triaging based on leadership priorities.
Respond to quick-turnaround requests with high responsiveness and sound judgment on prioritization.
Take and distribute notes and action-item summaries for leadership, as needed.
Manage the Lab’s department email account and electronic calendar.
Track funding opportunities that align with the Lab’s mission.
Provide backup support for Lab operations functions, including contract workflow management and processing payments, to keep work moving when other staff are out of office.
Coordinate logistics for Lab events, including scheduling, materials preparation, and on-site support.
Transport and distribute supplies, meeting materials, and catering around the Denver metro area, including on short notice; requires access to reliable personal transportation.
Provide basic remote technical support to staff as needed.
Additional duties as needed.