In close collaboration with the Chief Policy and External Affairs Officer, the Public Policy Director leads the organization’s government relations work, policy campaigns, and works to influence public policy in ways that deliver real world outcomes for Maine’s island and coastal communities. They also help position the organization as a thought leader on key topics and contribute meaningfully to the organization’s work with strategic partners.
Headquartered in Rockland, Maine, Island Institute is a leading community development organization dedicated to navigating climate and economic changes with Maine’s island and coastal communities, expanding opportunities, and delivering effective solutions. Our culture thrives on innovation, collaboration, and creativity, driven by a vision where Maine’s island and coastal communities thrive in a rapidly changing world, serving as models of innovation. We are steadfast in our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, applying these principles to strengthen both our organization and the communities we serve.
The Public Policy Director works in partnership with staff, community partners, and other organizations to strategically advance Island Institute initiatives and community projects. This person also participates in and influences various State and Federal policy processes on behalf of the organization. They also support and build the capacity of staff and partners to effectively participate in the policy process. The Public Policy Director’s role is collaborative and cross-functional, and the individual is expected to work effectively across teams, and they are also occasionally responsible for leading special projects of strategic importance to Island Institute.
The individual in this position is a highly relational, mission-driven leader who deploys significant skill in navigating government institutions, strategic partnerships, and community-based work. They bring leadership to the government relations work of Island Institute by working collaboratively with staff, donors, and external partners to create change that will shape the future of the Coast of Maine.
Qualifications:
- Professional expertise and interests that align strongly with the mission, goals, and programs of Island Institute.
- An advanced degree, at least 8 years’ experience working in policy, advocacy, state or local government, or a related field; an advanced degree in policy, political science, law, or a related field in addition to experience is preferred.
- Experience working with networks and coalitions to influence policymaking, local leaders, preferably in small natural resource-dependent communities.
- Proven success with policy initiatives that have brought funding to communities.
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to effectively and professionally convey the organization’s mission, priorities, and work to diverse audiences in ways that are compelling.
- The ability to listen in communities and in partnerships to inform, develop and implement responsive programming.
- Experience in leading effective, high-stakes meetings, workshops, events, and tours.
- Leadership, management, and strategy experience, particularly in nonprofits, is preferred.
What we offer:
- A benefits program to include health, dental, vision, company provided life and disability insurance.
- A 403b retirement plan with an employer match of up to 6% after one year of employment
- A generous paid time off policy
- 12 paid holidays and 2 paid floating holidays.
- Island Institute membership benefits.
- Discount at Island Institute’s Archipelago retail store.
- A hybrid work environment.
We offer a competitive salary, starting at $90,640, with a range that depends on experience and skills related to position responsibilities and qualifications. Recognizing that no candidate will possess all the relevant skills and experience, we encourage you to apply if you align with many of the qualifications for and interests in this role.