Helpline: 1-800-686-2646 or text NAMI to 741741 namiohio@namiohio.org 1225 Dublin Road, Suite 210, Columbus OH 43215

Director of Public Policy and Advocacy

As the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, you will be responsible for the execution of strategies designed to advance NAMI Ohio’s public policy goals. Primarily, you work directly with the NAMI Ohio Executive Director to develop policy and advocacy initiatives to deepen advocacy engagement and improve access to mental health care.

This position will work with NAMI Ohio affiliates, partners and funders to develop proposals and work plans focused primarily on educating the public and elected officials about the issues, building a diverse set of stakeholders to support the work, collecting stories and data, and developing capacity of the organization and partners to engage in public policy efforts that support mental health advocacy goals.

You will be expected to have a working knowledge about mental health policy, strong communications and public speaking skills, and experience driving advocacy campaigns.

In your role, you will work collaboratively to advise and support the execution of grant goals and strategies and will participate in the development of training opportunities and events.  You will communicate policy and advocacy priorities with internal and external stakeholders and work with a range of other staff within the NAMI organization.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL DUTIES OF POSITION: An individual must be able to perform each essential duty listed below at a satisfactory level:

  • Manage all components of large grants, including tracking activities, managing the project budget, writing reports and proposals, and executing/supporting sub-grants.
  • Build and manage relationships with grantees to provide targeted supports, technical assistance and consultation in an effort to increase their capacity to engage in advocacy on these issues.
  • Write and distribute reports, articles, briefs, and memoranda on issues related to mental health access.
  • Spotlight and disseminate best practices and knowledge to local NAMI affiliates.
  • Organize, participate in, and conduct trainings, webinars, and conferences to build awareness and knowledge on mental illness and related issues.
  • Cultivate relationships with national and state leaders and partners.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Minimum requirements include a Bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of advanced-level experience in public policy advocacy. Familiarity with the NAMI network and state policy landscape is strongly preferred. Postgraduate degree preferred. The role also requires health policy knowledge, advocacy skills and abilities; excellent verbal and written communication skills; an ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, build relationships, and work collaboratively; and excellent project management and Microsoft Office Suite skills.

Full-time position. Competitive salary. Benefits package offered.

Email cover letter and resume to terry@namiohio.org . No calls to the office.