Director of Government Relations and Advocacy

The New York Library Association is seeking candidates for this full-time salaried, position of Director of Government Relations and Advocacy.  The position is primarily responsible for the development and delivery of ongoing advocacy and communications to elected officials and library advocates about the value of libraries to education, economic development and as centers of community.  This individual will develop and maintain positive relationships with policy makers and library community leaders, working with them to improve library funding, services and resources through advocacy, public policies, programs and regulations.  While the primary activities of the position are related to advocacy, the individual is expected to integrate with the NYLA staff, and assist with general organization functioning and activities.

The successful candidate will be enthusiastic and have excellent interpersonal communication skills; they will be comfortable presenting to both small and large audiences.  They will have a passion for library issues affecting the profession and the public, and will have an entrepreneurial spirit seeking to find new and creative ways to meet the dynamic needs of the association’s members.  A working knowledge of the library infrastructure of New York State is desirable.  Travel throughout New York State to promote library advocacy at all levels is required (10% anticipated).  The position will report directly to NYLA’s Executive Director.

Qualifications & Qualities

Candidate should have experience with government relations, advocacy and legislative-related initiatives.  They will have a demonstrated level of experience developing and successfully advancing policy initiatives.  Candidates must also have exceptional written and oral communications skills, and possess a strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Preference will be to candidates with previous professional experience in the area of non-profit association government affairs.  Minimum Education Required:  BA/BS.

Compensation

Salary: $65K Annually
NYLA offers a competitive benefits package including employer-paid health insurance, a 403-b retirement plan, paid holidays, vacation and sick time.

About NYLA

The New York Library Association (NYLA), an Albany based 501(c)3 non-profit membership association, representing over 4000 public, college, school and special librarians and libraries from throughout New York State.

Submit Resume and Cover Letter as PDF by October 15 to:
Jeremy Johannesen
NYLA Executive Director
director@nyla.org

Job Posting and Complete Job Descritpion (PDF)

Posted 9/25/19