Policy Advocate and Government Relations Professional

Job Posting Organization:
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading international conservation organizations, dedicated to preserving the natural world and addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. Established in 1961, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a diverse workforce of more than 5,000 employees. The organization focuses on various conservation priorities, including climate change, wildlife conservation, and sustainable food systems, aiming to create a world where people and nature thrive together.

Job Overview:
The Policy Advocate and Government Relations Professional will play a crucial role in advancing WWF's policy and funding priorities with the United States government. This position involves developing and leading lobbying and advocacy strategies focused on key issues such as food system transformation and freshwater policy. The individual will work collaboratively within a dynamic team environment and engage closely with WWF experts across the organization. The role requires building and managing relationships with U.S. government stakeholders, promoting WWF’s brand, and ensuring access to decision-makers to effectively advance the organization’s policy objectives. The successful candidate will be expected to create compelling communications, represent WWF in advocacy coalitions, and track relevant legislation and political trends to identify opportunities for WWF's initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of this position include creating and implementing outreach and advocacy strategies to influence U.S. government stakeholders regarding WWF priorities. This includes food system strengthening, reducing food loss and waste, and enhancing freshwater access and ecosystem connectivity. The individual will develop lobbying strategies, create communications to influence government audiences, and represent WWF in advocacy coalitions. They will also cultivate relationships with government stakeholders, track legislation and political processes, and contribute to policy documents and communications materials. Additionally, the role involves promoting collaboration within teams, managing consultants and budgets, mentoring junior staff, and performing other assigned duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and have at least 6 years of experience in conservation, policy, or advocacy, with an advanced degree preferred. Strong existing relationships with coalition players and Congressional staff, particularly in Agriculture Committees and USDA, are preferred. Applicants must be willing to register as a federal lobbyist and demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking. The ability to prioritize tasks, produce high-quality work under time constraints, and work both independently and collaboratively is essential. Familiarity with Microsoft Office software is required, along with a commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion within teams.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree is required for this position, with a preference for candidates holding an advanced degree in a relevant field such as environmental policy, public administration, or a related discipline. The educational background should reflect a strong understanding of conservation issues and policy advocacy.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in conservation, policy, or advocacy. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully advocating for policy positions and working with government stakeholders. Experience in managing projects and leading teams is also important, as well as familiarity with the legislative process and government relations.

Languages:
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. While not explicitly stated, proficiency in additional languages may be considered beneficial, particularly if they relate to WWF's international work or stakeholder engagement.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Washington DC. The salary range for this role is between $89,600 and $112,10

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., and the position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume through the WWF Careers Page, referencing Requisition #2603
• WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of various characteristics protected under applicable law.