Summary

Description

The Colorado Catholic Conference (CCC) is the united voice of the Colorado Catholic bishops in public policy that promotes the common good consistent with Catholic social teaching.

The Policy Associate or Associate Director (title determined by experience) of the Colorado Catholic Conference (CCC) represents the Bishops of Colorado in an official capacity before all branches of government, as well as before national and statewide governmental and private organizations, and assists the Executive Director in administering the work given by the CCC Board of Governors. Lobbying, policy analysis, building coalitions, and cultivating relationships with stakeholders in the Catholic community comprise of the principal duties of the Policy Associate/Associate Director.

Key Job Responsibilities:

Policy Analysis & Advocacy
- Government Relations: Evaluate and respond to public policy issues at various levels, discerning how they impact the Catholic Church in Colorado.
- Policy Expertise: Develop a deep understanding of specific policy issues that affect the Church.
- Testimony & Lobbying: Testify in front of government entities, coordinate expert testimony, monitor legislation, and lobby lawmakers. Also, submit monthly lobbying reports.
Community Engagement & Outreach
- Legislative Leadership Network: Manage this network of parish representatives to improve the Church's outreach across Colorado, ensuring regular communication with parish leaders and managing an online forum.
- Parish & Organization Outreach: Speak at parishes and other Catholic institutions to raise awareness about policy issues and the Church’s stance.
- Legislative Events & Training: Help plan events, training sessions, and outreach initiatives for clergy and laity, strengthening legislative involvement.
Communications Support
- Digital & Media Communication: Assist with content for the website, social media, listserv, and external communications with media, parishes, and government agencies.
- Updates & Correspondence: Draft policy updates, legislative testimony, and other communications as needed to keep stakeholders informed.
Data Collection & Reporting
- Economic Impact Report: Gather data for a report on the Catholic Church’s economic contributions.
- Meeting Preparation: Assist in preparing agendas and materials for the Board of Governors' meetings and ensure readiness for bi-annual updates.
Relationship Management
- Diocesan Relations: Maintain strong working relationships with the three Colorado dioceses.
- Coalition Building: Represent the organization in national and state policy meetings and coalitions, fostering collaborative relationships.

This role requires a mix of advocacy, communication, legislative knowledge, and strong interpersonal skills to support the Catholic Conference’s mission and strengthen its influence in public policy.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Be a fully initiated Catholic in the communion of the Catholic Church and intentionally living out the five precepts of the Church (CCC 2041-2043)
Knowledge of Catholic Social Teaching
Minimum bachelor’s degree in a related field
Demonstrated knowledge of the legislative process
Strong analytical and research skills
Clear and consistent verbal and written communication
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and products
Effective interpersonal and organizational skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience in public policy, government relations, or law
Experience in lobbying
Spanish language fluency

Great Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage options
Teladoc Services
Alternative Care coverage options for Chiropractic/Acupuncture/Spiritual Care/Massage Therapy/Naturopathy.
Natural Family Planning up to $500 per year for education, supplies, and materials.
Maternity Management Program Guidance and educational materials
Generous Paid Time Off: 22 days starting (accrued) + 18 paid holidays (including the full week between Christmas and New Year’s.
Retirement Plan: Annual Employer Contribution of 6% of salary to retirement plan plus employee deferrals.
Parental Leave
Employer-Paid Life Insurance
Employer-Paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Catholic Biblical School: Free and discount courses