Through advocacy, influence, and engagement, Central City Association (CCA) enhances Downtown's vibrancy and increases opportunity in the region. We represent the interests of 300 businesses, trade associations and nonprofits and serve as one of the most effective conveners between the community, public, and private sectors. We provide a high-level of service to our membership, which includes public policy advocacy/research/thought leadership, engagement with our elected leaders, and networking, branding, and marketing opportunities at CCA events.
Our workplace culture is important to us. Candidates should be willing to operate in line with our principles, which include a commitment to:
- CCA’s mission of creating a vibrant, welcoming and sustainable Downtown
- Accountability, reliability, transparency and integrity
- Respect and openness for differing opinions, ways of thinking and feedback
- Innovation, collaboration and adaptability to new circumstances and direction
- Continued growth and a sense of well-being for yourself and colleagues
- Relationships and people
STATUS:
This is a full-time, salaried position. Hybrid work schedule available with minimum 3 days per week in-office work required. Must be willing to work evenings or be available as needed depending on the schedule of events and meetings.
POSITION OVERVIEW:
The Policy Associate will support the President/CEO and Chief Strategy Officer in driving forward CCA’s public policy and advocacy efforts. As an integral member of the Public Policy Department, the Policy Analyst must possess a genuine interest and understanding of local government/public policy and legislative advocacy experience. Work requires strong critical thinking, communication, and interpersonal skills in a very fast-paced and quickly changing environment. The ideal candidate is politically savvy, eager to learn and a driven self-starter with a passion for growing their government affairs career.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Policy Development & Advocacy: Assist in the development and implementation of government relations/public policy strategies to influence legislation that affects CCA and its membership. Oversee and manage CCA’s policy committee calendar and prepare meeting materials.
Government Relations & Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, elected officials, industry associations, non-profits, and community stakeholders to advance CCA’s public policy agenda. Participate in and/or lead coalitions with other organizations to advance shared policy goals.
Legislative Monitoring: Check weekly legislative agendas, track status of target legislation, committee assignments, etc.
Communication: Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and persuasive written and oral communications, including advocacy letters, policy briefs and public testimony. Assist in the preparation of CCA’s weekly newsletter and draft white papers as needed.
Strategic Relations: Respond to member requests and assist in the resolution of member issues.
Any other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s Degree required, post-graduate degree preferred
- 2-4 years experience in public policy, government affairs, or related fields. Urban planning experience is a plus.
- In-depth knowledge of local legislative/regulatory processes
- Self-motivated with an ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, quickly-changing environment.
- Excellent analytical, research, and critical-thinking skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and oral/written communications skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse stakeholders.
- People-oriented, with a positive, can-do attitude.
- Creative problem solver with strong collaboration, organization, and time management skills.
