Position Summary:
The Communications & Policy Manager will lead the organization's communications, media relations, and policy advocacy efforts. They will develop and implement communications strategies that raise BUJNYC's visibility, support fundraising and advocacy goals, and advance public understanding of issues affecting low-income New Yorkers. The role serves as BUJNYC's primary media contact and works closely with leadership and program staff to translate legal expertise, client stories, and program outcomes into compelling communications and policy initiatives. This position reports to the Director of Development & Communications and works closely with the Executive Director, Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel, program leadership, and other staff.
Essential Job Responsibilities:
Communications & Media
- Develop and implement BUJNYC's communications strategy, including messaging, media relations, public education, and communications priorities;
- Serve as BUJNYC's primary media contact, cultivating relationships with reporters, responding to inquiries, and securing media coverage that highlights the organization's expertise and impact;
- Draft and oversee communications materials, including press releases, statements, talking points, op-eds, articles, website content, social media content, email communications, impact report, fact sheets, flyers and other printed materials as needed;
- Identify opportunities to elevate BUJNYC leadership, and staff as subject-matter experts and prepare them for media interviews and public appearances;
- Collaborate with program staff to develop communications that leverage client stories, data, and legal developments while ensuring consistent organizational messaging and client confidentiality;
- Track and analyze website, social media, and communications metrics to evaluate performance and inform communications strategies; and
- Other related projects as requested.
Policy & Advocacy
- Monitor and analyze legislative, regulatory, judicial, and policy developments affecting low-income New Yorkers and BUJNYC's work;
- Research and develop policy positions and advocacy strategies in collaboration with BUJNYC leadership, attorneys, and program staff;
- Draft policy briefs, testimony, comment letters, legislative summaries, talking points, and other advocacy materials;
- Represent BUJNYC in coalition meetings and advocacy efforts, working with coalition partners to develop joint testimony, public comments, and other policy and advocacy materials
- Build relationships with policymakers, government agencies, advocacy organizations, community partners, and coalition members; and
- Other related projects as requested.
Education & Experience:
- At least five years of experience in communications, media relations, public policy, advocacy, government affairs, or a related field; experience in both communications and policy is strongly preferred;
- Demonstrated experience developing communications or media strategies, pitching reporters, and securing media coverage; and
- Experience researching and analyzing public policy, legislation, regulations, or issues affecting low-income communities.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to make complex legal and policy issues clear and compelling to different audiences;
- Strong relationship-building, organizational, and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines;
- Sound judgment and discretion when working with sensitive legal, client, and organizational information;
- Self-directed, creative, and persistent, with the ability to identify opportunities and see projects through to completion;
- Experience using digital communications tools and platforms, including social media management, website content management, email marketing, and tools such as Hootsuite, Canva, Adobe Illustrator, and Constant Contact, is preferred;
- Commitment to economic, racial, and social justice issues and to advancing the interests of low-income New Yorkers;
- Experience working in a nonprofit, legal services, advocacy, government, or community-based organization is strongly preferred; and
- Thorough commitment to BUJNYC's mission.
Compensation & Benefits
Annual salary is $78,000 - $87,000 depending on years of experience. Great benefits package such as, employer paid health insurance; 27 days annual vacation, employer 4% contribution to 401(k); and paid parental leave. This is a hybrid 3-day in office/ 2-day remote work position.
To Apply
If you are interested in this position, you must submit your resume and a cover letter telling us why your experiences would make you a good fit for this role.
