Policy and Strategy Specialist

Reports to the Director of Intergovernmental Relations. Provides support to activities in the Executive Office, collaborating with staff throughout the bureaus and programs.

DUTIES:

As a core member of the Intergovernmental Relations Office, the Policy and Strategy Specialist will:

• Complete timely short and long-term research and analysis of legislation, budgets, health policies and services, and is responsible for drafting and disseminating communications and presentations to policymakers, programs, and partners.
• Conduct short and long-term research projects on health policies. Assist with production of health reports, briefings, letters, and talking points for presentations. Participate in development of policy campaigns and other projects. Assists in development of policy priorities at federal, state, and local levels.
• Draft communications and presentations to policymakers, programs and partners. Draft internal and external communications, including regular legislative updates, policy reports, fact sheets, issue briefings and legislative testimony.
• Work with partners in other City departments on policy-related matters. Assist in communications, data management, and other support related to policy.
• Foster relationships with and maintains effective communication with elected officials and their staff, program staff, and partners/coalitions. Work with local and state organizations and coalitions to advance policy priorities. Liaise with internal programs and external partners to identify policy concerns and training needs.
• Educate and mobilize BPHC programs and clients around BPHC policy priorities. Assist in co-facilitation and coordination of advocacy skills and leadership trainings for BPHC staff, clients and community partners. Assist and coach staff and clients in legislative advocacy, including preparing testimony and participating in legislative visits.
• Work in a confidential capacity with senior staff. Meet regularly with IGR Director regarding all aspects of program operations, including but not limited to matters pertaining to program staff and other confidential matters. Operate independently. Use independent judgment and discretion to make decisions affecting the program and staff as it relates to program operations/services and BPHC policy.
• Work to help BPHC advance as an antiracist organization by meeting or exceeding the standards set by the BPHC Anti-Racism Policy.
• Perform other duties as required.
• BA/BS required. Masters in Public Health or other related field required. Significant work experience may be substituted for the degree requirement.
• 3-5 years' experience working within public health, health care, municipal or state government, or political or advocacy campaigns. An advanced degree may substitute for up to 2 years of the required experience.
• Training and experience in research, analysis, writing policy reports, and preparing presentations.
• Experience with the state or federal legislative process and an understanding of the public health policy landscape a plus.
• Knowledge of and commitment to the principles of public health and racial and health equity. Knowledge of Boston neighborhoods helpful.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn about the role of public health in addressing racism, the social determinants of health, and inequities in health outcomes as well as strategies to advance racial justice and health equity. Commitment to health equity.
• Must be able to operate independently and under tight deadlines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with strong facilitation and public speaking skills.
• Ability to work with a wide range of people, including community-based organizations, residents, front line service staff, program and executive directors, and public officials.
• Must be detail-oriented with excellent time management skills.
• Experience and comfort in using Word, Excel and PowerPoint.