Director of Public Policy

Job Description Summary

The Director of Public Policy reports to the President and CEO and leads the Patterson Family Foundation’s advocacy initiatives to advance its policy agenda. This role drives the creation and refinement of a strategic policy framework across key issue areas, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s research, community partnerships, and engagement efforts.

The Director will oversee the Foundation’s policy strategy, related grants and sponsorships, and external relationships to support Thriving Rural priorities and impact goals.

Job Description

Responsibilities

Policy Strategy & Compliance

• Develop and execute the Foundation’s policy framework in alignment with strategic priorities, working collaboratively with internal and external partners
• Collaborate with legal counsel and compliance officer to ensure adherence to IRS and state/local regulations
• Work with consultants to identify high-impact areas for influence
• Manage cross-foundation processes to align the Foundation’s Solutions Agenda with programmatic priorities

Advocacy & Engagement

• Identify and engage advocacy groups aligned with the Foundation’s mission
• Convene partners to discuss issues, spotlight solutions, and champion compliant policy responses
• Build and participate in funder coalitions around shared goals
• Cultivate relationships with policymakers and civic leaders to advance non-partisan engagement

Communications & Partnerships

• Collaborate with the Director of Communications and external vendors to support media, marketing, and engagement needs
• Contribute to internal communications and attend cross-functional team meetings to support strategy execution
• Represent the Foundation at conferences and events; foster relationships with media and civic partners
• Stay current on public affairs best practices and emerging platforms

Grants & Sponsorships

• Manage the Public Affairs grants portfolio, including sourcing, writing, and editing
• Ensure alignment of grantmaking with engagement goals and policy priorities

Operations & Culture

• Use Foundation tools (Salesforce, Quorum) to track relationships and legislation
• Model the Foundation’s Commitments: lead, communicate openly, avoid surprises, focus on solutions, stay curious, follow through, and lead with gratitude
• Some business travel required

Qualifications

The ideal candidate is a strategic, self-directed leader who thrives in dynamic environments and builds strong relationships across sectors.

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, Political Science, Public Administration, or related field; Master’s degree preferred
• 8+ years of experience in public policy, advocacy, government, public affairs, or related fields; nonprofit/philanthropy experience preferred
• Proven ability to collaborate with senior leadership as a strategic thought partner
• Demonstrated ability to design and lead advocacy strategies that align with legal parameters governing nonprofit and philanthropic institutions.
• Strong writing and public speaking skills, with experience in high-profile forums
• Skilled in translating complex information into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences
• Effective at building coalitions and leveraging networks to advance strategic initiatives
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills; able to balance multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, building credibility across all levels
• Experience with Kansas and/or Missouri public policy preferred

Patterson Family Foundation is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.