Help Wanted: Chapter Assistant Director for Legislation and Development
[Posted Dec. 9, 2011] – The Sierra Club Virginia Chapter is seeking an Assistant Director for Legislation and Development. Proven skills and a track record in both areas are a must. Knowledge of environmental issues and experience in working with volunteer leaders in a collaborative decision making process are also essential. Deadline for applications: January 9. Send cover letters and resumes to dana.snead@sierraclub.org.
Job Description:
Chapter: Virginia Chapter
Reports To: Chapter Director or Designated Volunteer Leader
Context: The Chapter Assistant Director manages chapter staff activities as delegated by the Chapter Director and serves as acting director in the absence of the Director. The Assistant Director, under the direction of the Director, works with chapter volunteers to develop and implement the major chapter programs of the Chapter. Primary responsibilities are to:
1. Plan, organize, and implement the Chapter’s state and local legislative priorities and government interactions under the direction of the Chapter Director and the Chapter Legislative Committee.
2. Develop and implement the Chapter‘s fundraising programs under the direction of the Chapter Director and the Chapter Fundraising Committee.
Scope: The Assistant Director plans and implements the chapter’s approved legislative and fund raising program. The Assistant Director is responsible for recruiting and organizing volunteer efforts, evaluating legislation, maintaining government and political contacts, and making strategic recommendations. Works closely with chapter staff and leadership to develop and implement effective fundraising strategies and programs though grant proposals, individual solicitation, telemarketing, events and direct response solicitation techniques. Manages the tracking of data and contributions. Assists with staff management and programs as delegated by the Chapter Director.
Job Activities:
Legislative
1. Plans, coordinates and implements the Chapters legislative strategies as approved by the chapter leadership. Lobbies and represents the Chapter to elected officials when this is an assigned program area.
2. Monitors, studies and researches proposed legislation to determine possible effects to the environment and makes appropriate recommendations.
3. Confers with legislators and officials to emphasize weakness or merits of specific bills to influence passage, defeat, or amendment of measure, or introduction of legislation more favorable to the Club’s interests.
4. Prepares and presents testimony at appropriate legislative hearings.
5. Contacts and meets with other individuals and groups having similar positions in order to rally support for bills, initiatives, laws, etc.
6. Plans and coordinates meetings between members and elected officials to discuss legislative issues and proposals and allow for officials to address member concerns.
7. Prepares press releases and communicates with the media to state the Sierra Club’s view on specific legislation.
8. Participates in the development of educational/ informational materials in regards to the Club’s legislative efforts.
9. Assists in the formulation of grassroots campaign and coalition activities in support of legislation at the local and state level.
10. Trains, informs, and motivates volunteers and other chapter staff to enable them to activate others in efforts to influence legislative and regulatory decisions. May supervise another staff member.
11. Monitors, and records voting patterns of elected officials regarding environmental legislation. Informs and educates the public as to the position taken by elected officials.
12. Works on task forces, committees, etc. representing the Club’s mission or objective.
13. Ensures compliance with all state and federal campaign requirements as it relates to ?
14. Works with Sierra Club staff and volunteers to ensure there is a consistent, clear legislative message that is being communicated to the public.
15. Performs miscellaneous duties as assigned.
Development:
1. Coordinates and implements fundraising events and activities.
2. Assists the Fundraising Committee in the development of annual fundraising goals and objectives.
3. Develops and carries out solicitations plans. Identifies fundraising trends; develops and cultivates new funding sources.
4. Recruits and trains volunteers to participate in Chapter fundraising programs and activities.
5. Manages the fundraising database and monitors the flow of funds, including the acknowledgement of gifts.
6. Monitors and prepares reports of fundraising progress.
7. Writes grant proposals to solicit funding from private, government, and public foundations.
8. Develops and maintains expertise in professional field by reading current literature and attending seminars, conferences and meetings.
9. Performs miscellaneous duties as required.
Organizing:
As needed, this staff person will support campaign organizing efforts related to the Chapter’s conservation work.
Knowledge and Skills:
– B.A./B.S. degree in Environmental Studies, Political Science or a closely related field.
– 3 or more years experience in the environmental field that includes working within the political process, press relations and public speaking. 1-2 years fundraising experience.
– Prior experience and effectiveness in lobbying. Clear understanding and knowledge of the legislative process
– Excellent written and oral communication skills. Skill in developing a positive rapport with the media. Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of organizations and volunteers. Skill in making presentations to a diverse audience
– Strong analytical skills. Proficient computer skills.
Sierra Club is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce.
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