Lead Counsel, Policy | JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Lead Counsel, Policy
Team: Policy
Location: New York City
Employment Type: Full-time
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Start Date: ASAP
Hiring Manager: Chief Policy Officer

ABOUT THE ROLE
REFORM is hiring three Lead Counsel, Policy roles to translate its mission into actionable policy aimed at transforming the criminal justice system, particularly probation and parole practices. As co-equal members of the Policy team, each Lead Policy Counsel will conduct legal and policy research, draft legislation and policy materials, and engage directly with lawmakers, agency officials, and coalition partners to advance REFORM's legislative and policy agenda. By navigating complex political and legal environments and building bipartisan support, Lead Counsel, Policy will help position REFORM as a leading voice in criminal justice reform, advancing a more equitable and humane system.

This role sits on the Policy team and reports directly to the Managing Director, Policy. The three Lead Counsel, Policy positions are undifferentiated and co-equal; assignments across jurisdictions and workstreams will be allocated by the Managing Director, Policy based on organizational need. Lead Counsel, Policy will own the legal research and bill/regulatory drafting that inform REFORM's legislative and policy positions, in close coordination with the Managing Director, Policy and the Chief Policy Officer.

Legislative & Administrative Drafting and Advocacy (40%)

• Draft and review legislation, amendments, and policy proposals in collaboration with the Chief Policy Officer, Managing Director, Policy, and fellow Lead Counsel, Policy.
• Engage in advocacy efforts, representing REFORM in meetings with lawmakers, agency officials, and coalition partners, and participate in negotiations related to REFORM's legislation under the guidance and direction of the Managing Director, Policy
• Prepare talking points, testimony, and other materials for legislative hearings and public forums.
• Participate in legislative interim activity, attend legislative hearings, offer informed testimony, and participate in policy-related workgroups, coalitions, and meetings.
• Provide regular updates to Policy leadership on the progress of legislative initiatives, including any challenges or opportunities.
• Collaborate with the Implementation team and relevant stakeholders to track progress and ensure that passed legislation is implemented as originally intended.
• In coordination with Policy leadership, collaborate with the Marketing / Communications team to ensure that policy initiatives are accurately and effectively communicated to the public and media.

Policy Formation & Legal Research (30%)

• Conduct in-depth legal and policy research and analysis on issues relevant to criminal justice reform and the specific needs of jurisdictions under REFORM's purview.
• Develop and draft policy memos, briefs, and reports to support advocacy efforts and guide strategic decisions.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments at the state and federal levels, providing timely updates and insights to Policy leadership and the Executive Leadership Team.

Stakeholder Engagement & Coalition Building (20%)

• Attend coalition and stakeholder meetings convened by the Community Engagement/organizing team, which holds and manages REFORM's coalition and community relationships, to stay aligned on messaging and policy goals.
• Identify opportunities for bipartisan collaboration and support for REFORM's legislative agenda.

Other Duties as Assigned (10%)

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 3-5 years of post-J.D. experience in public policy, legislative affairs, or law, with substantial experience in criminal justice reform or a related area; candidates without a J.D. will be considered with 5-7 years of experience on Capitol Hill, in a law firm, or in similar environments.
• Prior experience in a legislature, government agency, or law firm handling policy or legislative matters.
• Demonstrated experience drafting legislation, regulations, or agency rulemaking comments.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex legal and policy information into clear, actionable recommendations.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active bar admission in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• Deep understanding of relevant state and federal laws, including the ability to draft and amend state and federal legislation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
• A team-oriented collaborator who fosters an inclusive work environment among fellow Lead Policy Counsel and the broader Policy team.
• Highly attentive to details, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all work products.
• Capable of adjusting to changing priorities and working effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Clear passion for and commitment to REFORM's mission.

Please know that no one ever meets 100% of the preferred qualifications. If much of this describes you, we encourage you to apply.

WORK DEMANDS

• Work Location: This position is based in New York City, with an in-office presence required four to five days per week.
• Travel: Up to 35%. This position will manage legislation in multiple jurisdictions and will be required to represent REFORM in state capitols and stakeholder meetings in each jurisdiction, especially during legislative sessions.
• Non-Traditional Work Hours: Up to 60-70% during legislative sessions; up to 30% during non-legislative seasons.
• Physical Requirements: May occasionally be responsible for transporting light materials (under 20 lbs) for team meetings or public events.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Authorized to work in the U.S.
• REFORM doesn't offer employment visa sponsorship
• Live within commuting distance of New York City (midtown) and have the ability to work in-person five (5) days per week starting on their first day in the role.

APPLICATION & INTERVIEW PROCESS
While the interview process may vary slightly, the general process will be:

• Phone Screen with People & Culture Team Member
• Virtual Interview with Chief of Staff
• Virtual Interview with Hiring Manager
• Interview with Panel
• Virtual Finalist Interview with CEO

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
The salary for this position, which depends on prior work experience and our assessment of your demonstrated fit for the role, will likely range from $175,000-$200,000. REFORM offers competitive base salaries based on the 75th percentile of the market among not-for-profit organizations of similar size, with opportunities for salary growth over time. We believe in compensating staff members fairly in relation to each other, their qualifications, and their impact on behalf of the organization, and take internal and external equity seriously.

Our current benefits include:

• Competitive salaries in the market of similar non-profit organizations
• Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other ancillary options.
• 20 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) during the first year of employment in addition to org-wide holidays (11), and winter shutdown during the last week of December
• 4% 401(k) match after 30 days of employment
• Coverage of 100% of health insurance premiums for employees (health, vision & dental)
• $75.00 monthly cell phone reimbursement

*Please note that the organization reserves the right to change benefits at any time.

At REFORM Alliance, we strive to move hearts and minds to create a more humane criminal justice system. This requires a company culture that values employee individuality and community development. We are committed to fostering an environment that is inclusive, empowering, and globally minded.