Advocacy and Policy Specialist

 JOB TITLE:      Advocacy and Policy Specialist                  Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO:   Communications Director        

SUPERVISES:   None                        SALARY RANGE: $23.00 - $27.00 Hour DOE

BENEFITS:      Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Simple IRA

JOB SUMMARY:  The Advocacy and Policy Specialist supports The Food Depot’s mission by conducting relevant research and producing timely, accurate, and accessible information that advances the organization’s policy and advocacy goals. They are a key support position to the Executive Director and Director of Communications, helping prepare leadership for advocacy efforts that promote long-term food security in Northern New Mexico. This individual will monitor relevant policy developments, track legislative activity, and prepare briefs, talking points, and background materials. While not a primarily public-facing role, this position plays a vital part in coordinating with public officials, maintaining awareness of political developments, and helping the broader food security network engage effectively in advocacy.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support implementation of The Food Depot’s advocacy goals.


• Monitor local, state, and federal legislation related to The Food Depot’s established advocacy goals.


• Monitor local news and community developments to identify emerging policy issues that could affect food security and The Food Depot’s work; attend city, county, or community meetings as appropriate.


• Track relevant bills and committee schedules; activate leadership, partners, and other advocates to engage when needed.


• Track relevant legislative and regulatory developments, analyze potential impacts, and communicate updates to organizational leadership.


• Maintain communication with elected officials and their staff, providing information or scheduling support on behalf of The Food Depot’s leadership.


• Maintain awareness of upcoming elections and candidate filings to support the food bank’s engagement during key electoral moments.


• Develop briefing sheets, talking points, and one-pagers to prepare leadership for meetings or public testimony.


• Help translate complex policy issues into accessible language for multiple audiences including donors, clients, and nonprofit partners.


• Prepare position statements and informational materials to communicate the organization’s positions to policymakers and stakeholders.


• Respond to requests for research, data, or coordination related to public policy and advocacy priorities when requested by food bank leadership and partners.


• Develop training materials to educate stakeholders about advocacy opportunities and public policy initiatives.


• Represent the organization at chosen events, meetings, and public forums to promote advocacy goals.


• Work with the Communications and Outreach Department to develop materials and copy used to promote awareness of The Food Depot’s mission and advocacy efforts.


• Carefully track expenditures and staff time allocated to lobbying, ensuring compliance with applicable limits.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Have at least 2 years of experience in public policy, government affairs, or nonprofit advocacy.


• Understand the legislative process and government structures at the local, state, and federal levels.


• Demonstrate excellent research and writing skills, with the ability to simplify complex information.


• Show strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.


• Communicate professionally with public officials and committee staff on behalf of the organization.


• Follow compliance rules and nonprofit-specific advocacy boundaries.


• Show interest in food justice, poverty alleviation, and equity-focused public policy.


• Bring experience working in or with coalitions, grassroots advocates, or community organizing.


• Commit to the mission and values of The Food Depot.


• Work independently and collaboratively with other staff.


• Use standard office equipment, including a computer, copier, and scanner.


• Work occasional evenings and weekends as needed

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

Negative Pre-employment Drug Screening

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

• Employee will spend 75% of the time working at a stationary computer terminal and 25% of their time in the community interacting with clients, partners, and/or elected officials and their staff.


• Primary work is in an office environment.

DISCLAIMER

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give assignments.

This position description excludes the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties.  All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.

I have read the above job description.  I meet the qualifications and can perform the duties as described.