Senior Advisor

City of New York • New York City, NY

1d

About The Position

The NYC Department of Probation (DOP) is a world leader in working creatively and effectively engaging with people under court-mandated community supervision. Through innovative partnerships with people and organizations throughout New York City, DOP provides opportunities for those on probation to access services and supports that positively impact their life trajectory. Following the best current data on “what works,” staff at DOP engage in meaningful relationships with those on probation to enhance community safety and decrease recidivism. The Senior Advisor to the Commissioner, under executive direction and with the broadest possible latitude for independent judgment and decision-making, serves as a key strategic advisor to the Commissioner. Reporting directly to the Commissioner, the Senior Advisor is responsible for advancing agency-wide policy priorities, strategic planning initiatives, cross-agency coordination, program oversight, and executive-level project management. This senior-level position advises on complex policy and programmatic matters, fosters cross-agency collaboration, and supports the implementation of the Commissioner’s strategic vision. The role requires high-level analytical skills, political acumen, discretion, and the ability to manage sensitive and high-impact initiatives. The Senior Advisor’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: - Advises the Commissioner and Executive Leadership on the development and implementation of policy initiatives, strategic priorities, and operational improvements aligned with agency goals. - Advises on strategic planning efforts and develops innovative policy proposals to strengthen service delivery and improve outcomes for justice-involved individuals. - Oversees and coordinates complex, cross-functional projects in collaboration with agency lines of service, ensuring that goals, deliverables, and timelines are met. - Serves as a liaison between the Commissioner’s Office and agency divisions to monitor program performance, review work product, and assist in resolving day-to-day operational challenges. - Reviews qualitative and quantitative research in connection with policy proposals, priority projects, and agency initiatives; analyzes data and performance metrics to inform executive decision-making. - Drafts policy briefs, reports, executive communications, and legislative recommendations. - Coordinates with other City agencies, elected officials, oversight entities, and external stakeholders to advance agency priorities and ensure alignment with Mayoral and Citywide initiatives. - Applies an equity-centered lens to policy development and implementation, assessing the impact of initiatives on diverse communities across New York City. - Supports crisis management, rapid response efforts, and special projects as directed by the Commissioner.

Requirements

• Experience: Significant, senior-level experience in public policy, government operations, or related fields.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for briefing executives and drafting reports.
• Analytical Skills: Strong ability to analyze data, fiscal reports, and performance metrics.
• Political Acumen: Ability to navigate sensitive political environments and stakeholder dynamics.
• Judgment: High capacity for independent decision-making and strategic thinking.
• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and six years of full time experience in coordinating, directing, supervising, and carrying out programs and policies in areas related to and concerning the criminal justice, juvenile justice, corrections, social work or probation field, 18 months of which must have been in a broad administrative, managerial, executive, or consulting capacity.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Advising: Serve as a sounding board and key advisor to the Commissioner on policy matters, translating research into actionable strategies.
• Policy Development & Analysis: Research, analyze, and draft policy briefs, reports, and legislative recommendations to address gaps.
• Project Management & Oversight: Lead complex, cross-functional policy projects, monitor service delivery, and ensure timelines are met.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Act as a bridge between the Commissioner's office, agency lines of service, other government bodies, and external partners.
• Legislative Affairs: Monitor federal, state, and local legislation, prepare testimony for hearings, and analyze impacts.
• Equity & Impact Assessment: Often required to apply an equity lens to policies and assess their impact on diverse communities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior