Vice President for Policy, Advocacy, and Communications

Job Posting Organization:
Pact is an international nonprofit organization that was founded in 197

• It operates in nearly 40 countries, focusing on building solutions for human development that are evidence-based, data-driven, and owned by the communities it serves. The organization aims to build resilience, improve accountability, and strengthen knowledge and skills for sustainable social impact. Pact's mission is to create a world where all people can thrive, and it works collaboratively with various partners to achieve this goal. The organization has a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values the contributions of all employees.

Job Overview:
The Vice President for Policy, Advocacy, and Communications plays a crucial leadership role within Pact, reporting directly to the CEO. This position is responsible for overseeing the organization’s policy and advocacy efforts, which are essential for enhancing Pact’s development impact and policy influence. The Vice President will work to build coalitions aimed at improving development and national security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security policy, as well as legislative and regulatory reform. Additionally, this role includes providing strategic oversight of Pact’s integrated communications function, ensuring that the organization’s brand, messaging, and external engagement effectively support and amplify its policy priorities. The focus of this position will encompass international and multi-stakeholder engagements, as well as interactions with the U.S. government and potentially other national governments, all while adhering to 501c3 limitations. The Vice President will also serve as a key spokesperson for Pact’s policy priorities and will be responsible for developing a robust advocacy agenda and leading a team to implement this agenda. Collaboration with senior leadership and various departments within Pact is essential for the success of this role, as is the ability to contribute to the organization’s long-term strategic planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Vice President will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Executive Management: Serving as part of Pact’s core senior management team, advising on strategy, operations, and resource allocation. Building and overseeing the policy and advocacy team, developing the department’s organizational structure, and establishing performance goals.
• Developing Pact’s Policy Agenda: Leading the development of Pact’s policy and advocacy agenda in alignment with the organization’s strategic plan and Engaged Communities approach.
• Identifying Policy Priorities: Consulting with internal experts to understand Pact’s priorities and their implications from U.S. government policies, determining advocacy targets, and producing relevant advocacy materials.
• Engaging with Legislative and Executive Branch Stakeholders: Leading outreach efforts to Congress and federal agencies, organizing legislative briefings, and preparing staff for key meetings and engagements.
• Strategic Communications Leadership: Overseeing Pact’s communications function, including branding and digital strategy, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Creating Policy and Advocacy Communications: Developing communication campaigns that support policy strategies and disseminating Pact’s policy positions through various channels.
• Organizational Spokesperson: Acting as a primary spokesperson for Pact, engaging with media, and leading efforts to mitigate reputational risks.
• Managing Coalitions: Leading Pact’s engagement with the development community, building relationships with NGOs, and organizing high-level meetings and events.
• Internal Coordination: Providing policy updates across departments and advising leadership on advocacy issues. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in international affairs, public affairs, or a related field, along with at least 13 years of relevant experience, including a minimum of 9 years in management roles. A Bachelor’s degree may be considered with additional years of experience. Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to international development and have experience working with Capitol Hill or federal policy related to international development. A proven track record of policy leadership and established networks within governmental agencies is essential. Candidates must also exhibit exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, and have experience in developing and implementing policy agendas. Strong problem-solving abilities, political acumen, and the capacity to work collaboratively across diverse teams are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in international affairs, public affairs, or a related field is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree may be acceptable if accompanied by significant relevant experience. The educational background should ideally reflect a strong foundation in policy analysis, advocacy, and international development principles.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 13 years of relevant experience, with at least 9 years in management positions. Experience in an international NGO is preferred, along with a demonstrated ability to manage teams and strategic priorities effectively. Familiarity with federal policy processes and international development issues is crucial.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory given the nature of the role. Additional language skills may be advantageous, particularly in languages relevant to Pact’s areas of operation.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and based in Washington DC. The role involves significant leadership responsibilities and requires a strategic mindset. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from individuals with varied backgrounds. Compensation and benefits details are not specified in the job posting.