Public Policy Director           

 

Reports to: President/CEO

Percentage Time: 1 FTE

 

General Description

The Public Policy Director provides professional staff support to Mental Health America of Texas regarding advocacy for mental health issues, and coordinates policy initiatives, communication and activities of the policy office.  Oversees activities to educate the public, state policymakers and allied professionals about mental health issues and works with affiliate executive directors, volunteers, mental health consumers, family members and advocates to develop and coordinate priorities in mental health policy decision-making in the state.  The Public Policy Director assists in the preparation and presentation of reports, fact sheets, and proposals, represents Mental Health America of Texas on various task forces and ad hoc committees, and prepares and delivers written and oral testimony and speeches.  The Public Policy Director is also responsible for overseeing, managing and implementing policy-related grant and/or contract funded projects and other duties as assigned.

 

Responsibilities

·         Assist in developing Mental Health America of Texas’ legislative platform and implementation plan

·         Implement public policy goals

·         Provide information about mental illnesses and necessary policy changes to state and federal policymakers, Mental Health America affiliates, volunteers, media personnel, and other stakeholders

·         Monitor and respond to legislative activities related to mental health and mental illness policies

·         Testify before legislative committees

·         Respond to draft proposals for rules, policies, and programs affecting services to people living with mental illnesses

·         Represent Mental Health America of Texas on work groups and task forces

·         Prepare presentations, speeches, and testimony for self and others on mental health issues

·         Facilitate meetings, coordinate activities of committees and conduct trainings

·         Support volunteer board members to provide mental health advocacy

·         Utilize a legislative network for advocacy and outreach efforts

·         Manage policy-related grant and/or contract funded projects

·         Provide reports on mental health initiatives and issues at the state level

·         Provide input into Mental Health America of Texas’ strategic planning process

·         Research and write articles on mental health issues for the organization’s quarterly newsletter

·         Utilize opportunities for developing interests and pursuing those interests to further the organization’s mission

·         Other duties as assigned

 

Qualifications

·         Masters level degree in mental health, public administration, government, or law

·         Experience working in and fostering coalitions

·         Strong written and oral communication skills

·         Strong research skills

·         Minimum 3 years professional experience

·         Knowledge of mental health issues