Policy Fellow, Technology

POSITION SUMMARY

At the NAACP, our mission is to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color. The NAACP is seeking an experienced and skilled Policy Fellow with 7+ years of demonstrated expertise in advocacy and legislative policy within the technology sector.

The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping and influencing policy decisions related to the intersection of evolving technologies, civil rights, and economic opportunity: artificial intelligence, data privacy, the innovation economy, and criminal justice. This position requires a deep understanding of legislative processes, a proven track record of successful advocacy efforts, and the ability to navigate regulatory processes, build and support coalitions.

RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES

Policy Development

• Research, analyze, and monitor legislative and regulatory developments related to technology, identifying opportunities and threats to civil rights and economic opportunity.
• Develop and articulate comprehensive policy positions that align with member-led NAACP goals, and frameworks.

Advocacy and Outreach

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including internal policy staff, NAACP members and leadership, government officials, coalition partners, funders, and advocacy groups.
• Represent the NAACP in meetings and other forums to advocate for policy positions and influence decision-makers.
• Prepare clear and compelling written materials, including policy briefs, reports, and position papers, to communicate the NAACP’s position on key policy issues.
• Conduct internal training sessions to educate stakeholders on relevant policy developments and their implications.

Strategic Planning

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align policy efforts with broader NAACP strategies and objectives.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to advance the NAACP’s technology policy agenda, including the identification of key milestones and success metrics in the areas of Health Equity, Education, Inclusive Economy, and Environmental and Climate Justice.

Regulatory Matters

• Stay abreast of evolving regulatory requirements at the state and federal level and work with internal stakeholders to build awareness and strategies to address the intersection of regulation with civil rights, economic opportunity, and the innovation economy.
• Provide guidance on the potential impact of new and proposed regulations on individuals, civil rights, and economic opportunity.

QUALIFICATIONS

Educational/Professional Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Advanced degree or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years of experience in advocacy and legislative policy, with a focus on technology issues.
• Strong analytical and research skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders.
• In-depth knowledge of technology policy issues, including data privacy, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.
• Strategic thinking and the ability to translate policy goals into actionable plans.