Chief Advocacy Officer

About UsAgainstAlzheimer’s and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Action (UsA2)
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, a 501(c)(3) organization, and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Action, a 501(c)(4), are engaged in a relentless pursuit to end Alzheimer’s, the sixth leading killer in America. Our work centers on prevention, early detection and diagnosis, and access to treatments—for all, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity. To achieve our mission, we give voice to patients and caregivers while partnering with government, scientists, the private sector, and allied organizations.

About the Role of the Chief Advocacy Officer
The Chief Advocacy Officer (CAO) leads the organization’s efforts to further its mission by building diverse coalitions with potentially allied organizations, conducting legislative- and executive-branch policy advocacy and education, and creatively activating supporters nationwide. Alzheimer’s disproportionately affects women, Black, and Latino Americans, and our advocacy centers that.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the CAO is a key member of the Senior Management Team. This is a senior position for an experienced nonprofit advocate and coalition builder.

Key Responsibilities
Advocacy Expertise
⦁    Lead and manage a small team of staff and consultants to achieve advocacy goals related to health equity, particularly for women and minoritized communities, and also work as an individual contributor.
⦁    Leverage UsAgainstAlzheimer’s programs, partners, and Board to advance and achieve policy and strategic goals. 
⦁    Develop and, with colleagues, execute a strategy of activating grassroots supporters, including through coalition partners representing women and minoritized communities.

Policy Expertise
⦁    In conjunction with the Board and senior management, develop and continually update a strategic federal, state, and local policy agenda that will foster urgency to help end Alzheimer’s.
⦁    Lead and manage a small team of staff and consultants to achieve policy goals and timeline, and also work as an individual contributor. 
⦁    Build and maintain strong relationships with legislators and key agencies. 
⦁    Represent UsAgainstAlzheimer’s with policymakers including members of Congress, congressional staff, and executive branch officials. 


Leadership, Management, Collaboration
⦁    Bring high-level strategic leadership, vision, urgency, and commitment to collaboration.
⦁    Work closely with Communications and Senior Management Team to leverage and maximize effectiveness of messaging and narrative.
⦁    Oversee political relationships for the organization, in conjunction with the Board.
⦁    Develop an understanding of the biological and social science surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Qualifications:
⦁    At least 8-10 years of experience in health-care policy and/or advocacy, including coalition-building and management responsibilities
⦁    Experience leading and directing results-oriented, high-functioning advocacy teams
⦁    Demonstrated track record of work in diversity, equity, and inclusion—ideally in health equity
⦁    Drive, energy, and a sense of urgency
⦁    Demonstrated ability to work effectively and productively with leaders across the political spectrum
⦁    Demonstrated ability to convene groups and individuals of diverse backgrounds and align toward a common goal
⦁    Passion for and commitment to mission of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, understanding of the pertinent issues, and the ability to articulate the case for the mission and programs
⦁    Demonstrated ability to identify partners, find common ground, and build and lead coalitions 
⦁    Demonstrated ability to support and mobilize Board members, colleagues, advocates, and partners who have strategic relationships
⦁    Demonstrated ability to engender teamwork and respect from coworkers and partners
⦁    Excellent verbal and written communications skills
⦁    Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
⦁    Willingness to respond to urgent issues outside normal work hours
⦁    Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred

Location, Compensation, and Benefits: This is a full-time, salaried position. We prefer the role be based in the Washington, D.C., area but may be flexible for exceptional candidates. The starting annual salary for this position is generally within the range of $190,000 to $250,000. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. In addition, the benefits package includes 15 vacation days the first year (with subsequent increases), 12 paid holidays, sick leave, a 401k retirement plan with 5% employer match, and a choice of medical plans covering all or a portion of health, vision, and dental insurance.

Applications: Please email [email protected] with (1) your resume and (2) a cover letter describing your interest and experience relating to this position.  Please note Chief Advocacy Officer in the subject line and let us know how you learned of the position. APPLICATIONS WITHOUT A COVER LETTER WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Action promote a culture of inclusion and seek talented staff from diverse backgrounds. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other legally protected factor. If you need accommodation for the interview process due to a disability, please let us know at [email protected]