Colorado Center on Law and Policy

Make a difference, lead a change. Seeking a high impact Executive Director!

OUR MISSION

The Colorado Center on Law and Policy advances the health, economic security and wellbeing of low-­‐income Coloradans through research, education, advocacy and litigation.

We advocate for policies and programs that focus on:

• Family Economic Security Program (FESP) - Giving Colorado families the tools to thrive.
• Health Program - Promoting quality, affordable, accessible health care for all Coloradans.
• Litigation - Pursuing legal action when the system fails those who lack resources.
• Coalition Building - Nourish and cultivating strong and effective partnerships throughout Colorado.  Good partnerships yield good policies.

WHAT WE DO

For twenty years the Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP) has been a leading advocate on behalf of low-­‐income families in Colorado and in pursuit of economic, health, and legal justice. Colorado’s leading policy-­‐makers recognize CCLP as an objective and reliable source for robust policy analysis that fulfills its mission by advocating on behalf of low-­‐income families in the policy arena, and when necessary, litigating in the courts.  

CCLP was founded by leaders who sought to fill the gaps created in 1996 when the federal government limited the types of advocacy and litigation the federally funded Legal Services Programs could perform.  CCLP has taken the lead in developing the Self-Sufficiency Standard – now a standard for policy makers and advocates; in litigation to correct deficiencies in the state-wide computer benefits management system; and in ensuring equity in the reform of public benefits and access to affordable healthcare.  CCLP is recognized and valued advocacy partner on issues related to housing, collateral consequences of a criminal record, access to employment that pays a livable wage and health policy.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Executive Director is a leader dedicated to making a difference in the lives of low-income Coloradans through policy and advocacy while embracing diversity and inclusiveness. Passionate about social equity, the Executive Director serves the Board of Directors and acts as chief executive officer responsible for the overall leadership, management and strategic planning of the organization. Engaged both legislatively and within the community, this position is the face of CCLP and presents its mission and programs in a strong, positive image to all stakeholders. This position oversees all programs, services, and activities and collaborates with and leads a staff of 14 to ensure a productive and inclusive work environment. In addition, the Executive Director is responsible for generating fundraising opportunities through foundations and individual donors and all public relations efforts that seek to raise awareness and support of the organization.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

In conjunction and collaboration with the Board of Directors:

• Leads the development and implementation of CCLP’s strategic direction; identifies and communicates priorities in support of its mission and goals; manages resources and operations effectively;
• Understands and supports the role and on-going development of the Board; communicates health, financial status and direction of the Center; seeks guidance when appropriate and involves Board in promoting the organization;
• Effectively leads and manages a staff of 14; fosters a success-oriented, accountable environment; develops and retains high quality professionals;
• Maintains and cultivates relationships with policy makers, state agency leaders and recognized opinion leaders along with various foundations and major and prospective donors;
• Participates in key meetings with legislators, coalition partners and other community leaders in support of CCLP’s policy goals; partners with legal community including pro-bono and specialty bar associations;
• Serves as chief liaison with media, community organizations and key constituent groups including the equity cohort; represents the public face of CCLP and leads external relations efforts;
• Is responsible for financial planning and stewardship; develops annual goals and revenue generation plans for capital and other fundraising campaigns that ensure consistent income and long-term sustainability;
• Ensures the financial health of CCLP is managed effectively including budget; minimizes any liabilities and safeguards compliance;  
• Focuses on creating a work environment that furthers equity; prioritizes high morale, empowerment and productivity.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO COLORADO CENTER ON LAW AND POLICY

Knowledge of communities served and/or the ability to help CCLP build strategic alliances with racially and ethnically diverse organizations are important qualifications. In addition:

• Dedication to social and racial equality;
• Commitment to promote justice and economic security for low income Coloradans;
• Experience leading organizations to grow and enhance their capabilities through sound judgment and decision making that yields results;
• Excellent internal and external communications skills to be the spokesperson and face of CCLP;
• Proven leadership skills to coach and mentor highly skilled staff and work effectively with the Board of Directors;
• Demonstrated success in revenue generating strategies including foundations, donors and events.

The successful candidate:

• College degree required, graduate degree and/or law degree preferred;
• Minimum of 5 years’ leadership experience in government, legal, nonprofit or related social services programs preferred;
• Culturally responsive, is knowledgeable in the area of equity and understands racial and economic diversity and inclusiveness;
• Strong policy analysis skills, political judgment and working within the legislative arena; experience in the State of Colorado preferred;
• Media relations experience preferred;
• Proficient at public speaking and the ability to communicate CCLP’s mission and goals in compelling and effective ways;
• Skilled in the areas of program planning and evaluation, legislative and administrative advocacy and delivery of legal services;
• Demonstrated track record of effective relationships with donors and foundations;
• Proven effective leadership with Board of Directors and staff; ability to build consensus among diverse constituencies in both the private and public sectors;
• Experience setting and achieving strategic and operational objectives with measurable results;
• Demonstrated high degree of business acumen including working knowledge of nonprofit fiscal management;
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

WHAT COLORADO CENTER ON LAW AND POLICY IS PROVIDING

• Compensation commensurate with experience and discretionary bonus potential
• Health benefits – medical, dental and vision
• Retirement plan – 403 (b) and Roth

Colorado Center on Law and Policy provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, CCLP complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Colorado Center on Law and Policy expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of CCLP employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

If you are interested in applying for this opportunity, please apply directly through the link below.  No phone calls please.

https://colorado-center-on-law-policy.breezy.hr/

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Three professional references
• Salary expectations