Role Overview:

As the Director of Public Policy for SWANA, your primary responsibility is to lead and oversee the organization's public policy initiatives related to solid waste management. You will work closely with government agencies, industry stakeholders, and SWANA members to shape and advocate for policies that promote sustainable waste management practices, drive innovation, and address environmental concerns.

Responsibilities:

Policy Development and Advocacy:

• Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments at the local, state, federal, and provincial levels pertaining to solid waste management.
• Develop and recommend policy positions and strategies to the SWANA leadership team based on research, industry best practices, and member input.
• Advocate for SWANA's policy positions through effective communication with government officials, industry partners, media and other relevant stakeholders.
• Represent SWANA at public hearings, meetings, conferences, and other events to present the organization's policy viewpoints.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key lawmakers and staff at the local, state, federal, and provincial levels.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, environmental organizations, and community groups.
• Collaborate with SWANA members to gather their insights, experiences, and concerns regarding public policy issues impacting the solid waste management industry.
• Organize and facilitate meetings, workshops, and roundtable discussions to foster dialogue among stakeholders and promote consensus-building.
• Provide updates to SWANA members on legislative and regulatory developments on a regular basis via articles, emails, meetings, and other outlets as appropriate.

Research and Analysis:

• Conduct research and analysis on emerging trends, technologies, and practices in solid waste management and related policy areas.
• Evaluate the potential impact of policy proposals on SWANA members, the environment, and the broader community.
• Prepare reports, white papers, and policy briefs to communicate research findings and policy recommendations to internal and external audiences.

Legislative Support and Outreach:

• Provide guidance and support to SWANA members and chapters on engaging with their local, state, federal, and provincial elected officials to advocate for SWANA's policy priorities.
• Develop educational materials, toolkits, and resources to assist members in effectively communicating the importance of sustainable waste management practices to policymakers.
• Collaborate with SWANA's communications and marketing teams to raise awareness of SWANA's policy positions and achievements through various channels, including social media, newsletters, and press releases.

Regulatory Support and Outreach:

• Provide guidance and support to SWANA Technical Divisions, Chapters, and members on engaging with regulatory authorities and commenting on proposed regulation.
• Develop letters and other materials in response to requests for comment on proposed regulatory actions.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in public policy, environmental science, communications, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred.
• Extensive experience in public policy development and advocacy, preferably in the field of environmental sustainability or waste management.
• In-depth knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes at the local, state, federal, and provincial levels in North America.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and communicate it effectively to diverse audiences.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including experience in public speaking and presenting to high-level stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with government officials, industry leaders, and community organizations.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with a track record of achieving policy objectives.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for environmental sustainability and a commitment to advancing sustainable waste management practices.
• Must be based in the Washington D.C. area.

Please provide resume, cover letter and salary requirements to hr@swana.org. SWANA provides a comprehensive benefits package, including generous vacation and sick leave, several Carefirst medical options including employer-funded HSA plans, employer-paid disability, life insurance, and long term care insurance, and work location flexibility with work-from-home options.

SWANA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.