Lead Advocacy Officer

About ZERO TO THREE

Founded in 1977, ZERO TO THREE works to ensure that babies and toddlers benefit from the early connections that are critical to their well‑being and development. Our mission is to give all babies and toddlers a strong start in life.

Summary

The Policy Center at ZERO TO THREE seeks a Lead Advocacy Officer (LAO) to manage federal policy, government relations, family and community mobilization teams. The LAO will execute a power‑building, integrated advocacy agenda to advance the organization’s mission and will report to the Chief Policy Officer as a member of the Policy Center’s Leadership Team.

Essential Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Collaboration
Design and advance the organization’s advocacy plan in partnership with external stakeholders. Coordinate federal and state advocacy campaigns, government‑relations strategies, and media communication efforts. Plan and execute annual high‑profile advocacy events and ensure all activities comply with relevant laws and ethical standards.

Dynamic Policy Analysis
Monitor shifts in the political and policy landscape, identify opportunities and challenges, and advise on strategic trade‑offs. Provide leadership to keep advocacy strategies coordinated, adaptable, and effective in achieving measurable policy outcomes.

External Representation
Serve as the external voice for ZERO TO THREE, representing the organization with coalitions, legislators, and public stakeholders. Lead team members in providing technical assistance to federal policymakers, drafting talking points, messaging, policy briefs, congressional testimony, and other advocacy materials.

The LAO must influence and motivate others, possess strong conceptual, writing, and communication skills, and understand legislative, appropriations, and regulatory processes.

Team Leadership and Supervision
Supervise a cross‑functional team of policy advocates and government‑relations professionals. Mentor, evaluate performance, set annual goals, and facilitate professional growth while coordinating with other Policy Center departments.

Policy Advocacy and Alignment
Provide nuanced, data‑driven insights to advise colleagues on campaign strategy and audience tailoring. Monitor proposed legislation, maintain clear‑eyed focus on infant and toddler needs, and adapt strategies accordingly.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 12 years of advocacy and policy experience, including Capitol Hill, government relations, or lobbying.
• Minimum of 8 years of supervisory experience leading cross‑functional teams.
• Advanced knowledge of influencing and advocating at federal and local levels.
• Deep understanding of federal legislative and regulatory processes, including the budget and appropriations cycles.
• Strong strategic planner, critical thinker, and problem‑solver with judgment and risk management skills.
• Knowledge of early childhood policy issues such as health, mental health, family support, or early learning.
• Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills; experience cultivating respectful relationships with Congress, Executive Branch agencies, and community partners.
• Proficiency in supervisory skills, including reflective supervision and motivator for seasoned team members.
• Experience with strategic development and execution, including long‑term and short‑term actionable plans with measurable indicators.
• Ability to integrate research, policy, and practice into unified strategies.
• Experience with proposal development and fundraising partnership with a Development Team for advocacy initiatives.
• Exceptional oral and written communication; serve as an external spokesperson engaging diverse audiences and simplifying complex issues.

Education

Law degree or master’s degree in public policy, social work, political science, or a related field.

Compensation & Benefits

Estimated salary ranges from low $160,000s to low $180,000s, depending on experience, location, and budget. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, HRA, retirement contributions, generous leave, and more.

Physical Requirements

Frequent use of finger and hand dexterity to operate a computer keyboard; reading computer screens; extended periods seated; repetitive motions; reaching for objects; capacity to hold writing instruments; verbal communication; hearing. Requirements also include the ability to grant 30 pounds. Some travel may involve exposure to outdoor conditions.

Essential Qualities

• Encourages and practices critical thinking.
• Self‑reflective and empathic.
• Aware of workplace relationships’ influence on outcomes.
• Maintains a respectful and accepting approach.
• Recognizes broader context’s impact on behavior.
• Collaboratively supports colleagues at all levels.

Working Conditions

Work will typically be indoors in a heated, air‑conditioned office with moderate noise levels. Travel may expose the employee to outdoor environmental conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

ZERO TO THREE is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.