Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE) is seeking a qualified & experienced candidate to fulfill a Vice President of Public Affairs position based in Vermont. This role will oversee public policy, advocacy and communications as well as organizing & electoral activities for PPNNE and its affiliated entities in the state of VT. The VP of Public Affairs will work closely with the CEO and other senior leaders to construct a strategic public affairs and education agenda aligned with PPNNE’s vision and lead this work in Vermont.

CHARACTERISTIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• • Work closely with the CEO and other senior leaders to construct a strategic public affairs, outreach, and education agenda aligned with PPNNE’s vision and lead this work in Vermont.
  • Manage and oversee the development and implementation of the annual work plan for the Public Affairs department (VT), supervise the Public Affairs staff and consultants / contract lobbyists.
  • Serve as a senior spokesperson (in conjunction with CEO) and media liaison for PPNNE, PP VT AF and IEPAC, and supervise communications/media/social media outreach for policy, organizing and political matters in Vermont.
  • With Maine and New Hampshire Public Affairs, identify and implement a statewide public policy agenda designed to improve and expand access to health care including issues that impact the delivery of PPNNE’s health care and education services, and the communities served, and work with Public Affairs staff and Management Team to design strategies to improve the lives of Planned Parenthood patients.
  • Serve as lead lobbyist in Vermont, including drafting legislation and testimony, and serving as a point person for legislators and administration officials on issues regarding sexual and reproductive health and maintain/cultivate legislative relationships.
  • Work with legislative leaders, administration officials, coalitions, and community partners to maximize equitable reimbursements and funding opportunities for sexual and reproductive health care services and sexuality education.
  • With organization leaders, develop a health policy strategy to expand access for patients, improve reimbursements, and maintain coverage for essential services as well as work closely with industry leaders and state and federal administrations.
  • In partnership with PPFA, develop strategies to influence federal policies that impact sexual and reproductive health care.
  • Oversee the expansion and utilization of the PPNNE/VT AF activist and supporter leadership network to advance PPNNE/VT AF’s advocacy, organizing, and political goals.
  • Direct the independent expenditure work of the PP Vermont AF IEPAC.
  • Direct the VT public affairs team in the preparation of electoral and legislative strategy and political action committee targets.
  • Promote the development of coalitions and collaborations that support PPNNE/VT AF’s strategic vision and plan with a focus on communities served.
  • Ensure effective communication by working closely with other departments.
  • Provide ongoing communication with staff around agency priorities and goals.
  • Develop strategic partnerships with outside constituencies and communities including health care leaders, community organizations, government agencies and PPFA.
  • Identify opportunities and foster relationships for effective coalition building to educate and activate organizations and the general public about Planned Parenthood health services, advocacy organizing, and education.
  • Participate as a member of the Management Team.
  • Assist in Development activities as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• • Candidates must have at least 6 years of relevant experience in public affairs, advocacy, campaign and organizing experience in a non-profit/issue advocacy setting; or equivalent combination of experience from which comparable knowledge and abilities can be acquired.  including a combination of campaigns and legislative work.
  • In-depth knowledge of the legislative process and direct experience working with elected officials and state administrative agencies to advance policy.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and manage issue and electoral campaigns involving advocacy, communications and grassroots components.
  • Excellent communication skills, media relations and the ability to deal effectively with a wide variety of individuals and constituencies in and outside of PPNNE.
  • Commitment to team orientation and willingness to participate in constant and ongoing feedback with colleagues.
  • Flexibility, initiative, creative thinking, and a willingness to learn required.
  • Have a commitment and passion for the advancement of diversity, equity and inclusion and prioritize growth in this area.
  • Broad base of knowledge related to reproductive health care, health care finance, and health care reform.
  • Knowledge of relevant community and government agencies/organizations, legislation, and public issues.
  • Ability to effectively represent the agency to a broad range of outside constituencies.
  • Ability to travel throughout the state, and (occasionally) regionally and nationally.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• • The range of pay for this position is $95,000 to $110,000/yr, depending on experience. Access to benefits are available such as health, dental, vision, paid time off as well as a retirement fund.

Interested applicants please submit a cover letter and resume by clicking APPLY on our website https://jobs.lever.co/ppnne.