Policy Director

Reports to: Deputy Executive Director (DED)
Location: Based in Tampa, FL | Statewide Scope | Some Travel Required
FLSA Status: Exempt | Full-time

Position Overview:

Join the team at CAIR-Florida, the leading Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, as our Policy Director. In this role, you will be responsible for advancing our policy agenda, leading our government affairs work, and advocating for the rights of Muslims in Florida.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the policy landscape, elections and elected officials, excellent research and writing skills, and a passion for social justice. You should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and have the ability to think creatively and strategically. You should be able to independently problem-solve and create plans for action.

This is a full-time, paid position (commensurate with experience) based in Tampa, Central Florida, or South Florida. Employment includes paid time off, insurance, and additional benefits! Must be open for occasional travel across Florida for events, meetings, and other community opportunities, including periods of work in Tallahassee.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• This is a director-level position that serves as a first-line manager at CAIR-Florida. Director roles at CAIR-Florida require proactive leadership, initiative, and active participation in the execution of strategic goals.
• Reports directly to the Deputy Executive Director.

Policy

• Track state and local legislation in Florida related to:
  • Civil rights
  • Immigration
  • Criminal justice reform
  • Religious freedom
  • Surveillance and counterterrorism practices
  • Issues aligned with CAIR-Florida’s vision and mission

• Analyze bills and produce policy briefs, fact sheets, and talking points
• Maintain relationships with policy allies to exchange information and collaborate
• Develop and implement CAIR-Florida’s annual policy platform
• Meet with elected officials, staffers, and public administrators regularly
• Coordinate Muslim Capitol Day and similar lobbying efforts
• Submit written and/or oral testimony at legislative hearings
• Lead strategic responses to harmful legislation (e.g., anti-BDS, immigration laws)
• Create and mobilize strategic plan for statewide Advocacy Hubs.
• Engage with policy makers, stakeholders, and the media to advocate for policy positions.
• Mobilize community via action alerts, email campaigns, town halls, and phone banking
• Collaborate with relevant CAIR-Florida departments to organize civic engagement events and advocacy trainings
• Represent CAIR-Florida in interfaith and civil rights coalitions
• Train and deploy volunteers for legislative visits and campaigns
• Lead strategic voter-related efforts including voter registration, election awareness, and Get Out the Vote campaigns.
• Managers and directors will both lead and participate in executing strategic goals and policy plans.

Supervisory Duties

• Directly supervises team members
• Responsible for assigning projects and goals, providing feedback, and managing deadlines
• Work with team to develop KPIs and track work to ensure alignment with goals
• Track team hours and performance for HR and stipend purposes
• Conduct monthly progress reviews to ensure progress and accountability

Budget Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit an annual department budget that reflects anticipated program needs, staffing, interns, travel, events, and any necessary tools.
• Work closely with the Deputy Executive Director and Finance team to align spending with organizational priorities and available funding.
• Provide quarterly updates and adjust program plans as needed to stay within budget.
• Responsible for conducting year-end budget reviews and presenting the following year’s proposed departmental budget.

Education / Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g. political science, public policy, law)
• 3+ years of experience in policy research, analysis, and advocacy
• Strong research and writing skills
• Familiarity with policy-making processes and stakeholders
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Commitment to social justice and civil rights

Salary commensurate with experience + health benefits.

How to Apply:

Submit a resume and cover letter highlighting your experience in volunteer management to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

CAIR Florida is an equal opportunity employer and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.