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City of Houston · 2 days ago

POLICY DIRECTOR (COUNCIL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT (EXE LEV))

Houston, TX

Full-time

Onsite

Mid, Senior Level

4+ years exp

The City of Houston is seeking a Policy Director to serve as the principal policy advisor for Council Member Alejandra Salinas. This role involves developing and implementing the Council Member's policy agenda, leading legislative proposals, and ensuring initiatives are informed by research and community engagement.

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Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of the Council Member’s policy agenda, ensuring alignment with legislative priorities and constituent needs

Advise the Council Member and Chief of Staff on policy, legislative, and budget decisions, including potential risks, benefits, and political considerations

Establish and prioritize policy initiatives, identifying opportunities to advance equity, justice, and community impact

Conduct thorough research and analysis to inform policy proposals, legislative decisions, and strategic initiatives

Review Council agendas, briefing materials, and proposed legislation, and provide guidance on potential amendments, voting decisions, and legislative strategies, producing concise policy memos, talking points, and recommendations

Monitor local, state, and national legislative developments, and assess their potential impact on Council priorities

Draft high-quality policy briefs, memos, reports, and other materials that clearly communicate complex issues to internal staff, stakeholders, and the public

Coordinate with city departments, legal staff, and external stakeholders to ensure Council decisions are well-informed and strategically aligned

Represent the Council Member in policy discussions with city departments, community organizations, and external stakeholders

Coordinate with communications and constituent engagement staff to ensure policy initiatives are clearly conveyed to the public

Lead or support strategic advocacy efforts to advance the Council Member’s policy priorities

Engage diverse stakeholders in policy development

Represent or staff the Council Member at community meetings, events, and stakeholder convenings as needed

Qualification

Policy analysisLegislative workResearch skillsPublic Policy degreeStakeholder engagementWriting skillsJudgmentDiscretionCommunity-centered governanceOrganizational skillsTeam collaboration

Required

Basic knowledge of grammar, spelling, punctuation and simple mathematical functions like percentages, ratios, etc. as might normally be acquired through attainment of a high school diploma or a GED

One year of administrative experience is required

College education may substitute for experience

Preferred

Minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in policy analysis, legislative work, government affairs, or related fields

Master's degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, or a related field

Strong writing, analytical, and research skills, including the ability to synthesize complex information into concise, actionable recommendations

Familiarity with local government operations, public policy processes, key Houston stakeholders, and relevant policy areas such as housing, public safety, infrastructure, workers' rights, public health, or urban planning

Experience coordinating policy with communications, advocacy, and constituent engagement efforts, including drafting digestible policy briefs and memos for diverse audiences

Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to anticipate and address emerging issues

Ability to work collaboratively within a small, dynamic team

Demonstrated commitment to public service and community-centered governance

Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6