Our client is Teach Coalition www.teachcoalition.org. They are the leading advocacy network advancing equitable funding, resources, and security for Jewish day schools.
Job Description:
The Teach NYS Political Director will lead and execute the organization’s political and government affairs strategy across New York State. This individual will be responsible for building and managing relationships with elected officials, policymakers, interfaith partners, and community leaders to advance Teach Coalition’s legislative priorities.
Working closely with the State Director and National leadership, the Political Director will drive lobbying efforts, provide strategic political counsel, and ensure alignment between state and national advocacy initiatives. This role also partners with grassroots leaders and community stakeholders to expand political engagement and deliver measurable policy outcomes.
This position reports to the New York State Executive Director and is a Hybrid position.
Essential Functions:
• Develop and implement a comprehensive political and government affairs strategy for New York State
• Build and maintain relationships with state and local elected officials, including the Governor’s office and legislative leaders
• Lead lobbying efforts related to education funding, school security, and relevant tax initiatives
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments; identify opportunities to advance policy priorities
• Provide strategic political analysis and recommendations to senior leadership
• Represent Teach Coalition in meetings, hearings, and coalition forums
• Partner with grassroots teams to mobilize activists and community leaders around advocacy initiatives
• Build and strengthen interfaith coalitions to broaden support for legislative goals
• Plan and execute advocacy events, lobby days, and political engagement initiatives across NYS
• Support and guide lay leadership in developing political and interfaith relationships
• Coordinate with national and multi-state teams to align messaging, strategy, and best practices
• Ensure consistent execution of political strategy across regions while contributing to national advocacy efforts
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, law, or related field preferred
• 5–7+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or advocacy leadership
• Strong understanding of New York State political and legislative landscape
• Demonstrated success building relationships with elected officials and advancing policy initiatives
• Experience in coalition-building, ideally across diverse or interfaith communities
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Strong strategic thinking combined with executional discipline
• Commitment to the mission of advancing Jewish education and advocacy
Preferred Qualifications:
• Direct experience working in New York State government or political campaigns
• Familiarity with the Jewish community, yeshivas, and day school landscape
• Experience working across regions or managing cross-functional initiatives
• Proven ability to balance long-term strategic planning with short-term results
• Background in interfaith or multi-community coalition leadership