Policy & Advocacy Manager

Job Description

ABOUT COTA SA COTA SA is the NFP peak body that advances the rights, interests and futures of 700,000 older South Australians aged 50+. COTA SA reflects the diversity of modern ageing in terms of living arrangements, relationships, income, health, ambitions, and aspirations. We participate in policy debate on a wide range of topics including cost-of-living, health and wellbeing, housing, transport, employment, digital inclusion, regional development, consumer rights and more. Visit the Policy and Advocacy page of our website to learn more. ABOUT THE ROLE The Policy & Advocacy Manager is responsible for the identification, research, drafting and promotion of policy positions and submissions on issues that matter to older South Australians, and for leading our efforts to effect change by advocating and influencing external stakeholders. The role provides strategic policy and advocacy advice to the Chief Executive and works closely and collaboratively with our Research & Engagement and Communications teams, the COTA SA Policy Council and external consultants. The role manages our relationships with Government, oversees delivery of our Peak Body program, contributes to external consumer bodies and advisory groups, and coordinates public policy-related inquiries and responses. The Policy & Advocacy Manager is a member of the Management Group, contributing to the effective management of the organisation. The role is offered on a permanent part-time basis of 25-30 hours per week negotiable with the successful candidate. Salary will be negotiated based on skills and experience. Generous salary packaging is available. The position is based in our Hutt Street office with access to flexible and hybrid work arrangements. ABOUT YOU To be successful in this role, you will have relevant social policy and advocacy experience and an understanding of contemporary issues relating to ageing and advocating for system improvement. You’ll have a degree in public policy, journalism, media, communications, social sciences, economics or related disciplines. You’ll have experience in research and analysis with a demonstrated ability to synthesise a wide range of data and issues to make strategic, evidence-based decisions and problem solve. You’ll be an outstanding communicator with high quality writing skills, and a savvy ability to translate insights into compelling policy and advocacy. You’ll have demonstrated experience proactively driving a strategic program of work from start to finish. To achieve the impact we are looking for, you’ll be comfortable in a small-medium NFP team culture and know how to manage very limited resources to achieve objectives. You’ll adapt easily between working autonomously and collaborating heavily as part of a cross-functional team. You’ll enjoy big picture strategic thinking but have an eye for detail and know that not-for-profit work is hands-on. Importantly, you’ll demonstrate strong alignment with our values, including a commitment to connecting with and listening to diverse communities of older people, so that you can help COTA SA make a difference in their lives. TO APPLY Interested applicants who meet the essential criteria are encouraged to view the position description available on the Job Vacancies page of our website (cotasa.org.au) and submit a CV and one page cover letter outlining your suitability for the role via Seek. COTA SA encourages applications from individuals of all ages and backgrounds, including those who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, CALD and from the LGBTI+ community. Applications close at 10am Thursday 20 February Enquiries to Chief Executive, Miranda Starke, by phoning COTA SA on 8224 5549. No agency enquiries please. #J-18808-Ljbffr