POSITION DESCRIPTION

Sr. Policy Manager

Reports to: Managing Director of Policy & Advocacy

Location: New York, NY or Washington, DC

About REFORM Alliance:
REFORM is committed to transforming probation and parole throughout the United States by changing laws, systems, and culture. The organization is working to replace America’s criminal justice system with a restorative approach that is fair, accountable, and invested in rehabilitation. Our goal is for people to reenter society with dignity, create meaningful pathways to work, and equip them with the tools to succeed all while making families and communities safer and stronger.

REFORM was founded in the wake of the #FreeMeek movement. The Board includes award-winning recording artist Meek Mill; Fanatics executive chairman Michael Rubin; Arnold Ventures co-founder Laura Arnold; entrepreneur and business mogul Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter; Kraft Group CEO and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft; Galaxy Digital CEO and founder Michael E. Novogratz; Vista Equity Partners founder, chairman, CEO Robert F. Smith; Brooklyn Nets co-owner, businesswoman, investor, and philanthropist Clara Wu Tsai; and CEO and President of Live Nation Entertainment Michael Rapino. Criminal justice advocate Jessica Jackson leads the organization as CEO.

Purpose:

The Sr. Policy Manager will lead REFORM Alliance's efforts to translate its mission into actionable policies aimed at transforming the criminal justice system, particularly probation and parole practices. This role requires strategic vision and expertise in policy development, legislative advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to drive systemic change. The Sr. Policy Manager will work closely with advocacy groups and community leaders to develop and advance effective evidence-based policies, ensuring that REFORM’s goals are reflected in state and federal legislation. By navigating complex political environments and building bipartisan support, the Sr. Policy Manager will help position REFORM as a leading voice in criminal justice reform, advancing a more equitable and humane system.

Responsibilities:

• Policy Research & Analysis:
  • Conduct in-depth research and analysis on relevant policy issues, focusing on criminal justice reform and the specific needs of jurisdictions under REFORM's purview.
  • Develop and draft policy memos, briefs, and reports to support advocacy efforts and guide strategic decisions.
  • Monitor legislative and regulatory developments at the state and federal levels, providing timely updates and insights to the CPAO and other senior leaders.
• Legislative Support & Advocacy:
  • Draft and review legislation, amendments, and policy proposals in collaboration with the CPAO and regional Policy Manager(s).
  • Engage in advocacy efforts, representing REFORM in meetings with lawmakers, agency officials, and coalition partners, and participating in negotiations related to our legislation under the guidance and director of the CPAO.
  • Prepare talking points, testimony, and other materials for legislative hearings and public forums.
  • Participate in legislative interim activity, attend legislative hearings, offer informed testimony, and participate in policy-related workgroups, coalitions, and meetings. 
  • Provide regular updates to the CPAO and senior leadership on the progress of legislative initiatives, including any challenges or opportunities.
  • Collaborate with the Implementation team and relevant stakeholders to track progress and ensure that passed legislation is implemented as originally intended. 
  • In coordination with Policy & Advocacy leadership, collaborate with the Communications and Digital teams to ensure that policy initiatives are accurately and effectively communicated to the public and media.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Coalition Building:
  • In partnership with the Community Engagement team and its state organizers, build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, advocacy groups, and community leaders, to advance REFORM’s policy objectives, identify opportunities for bipartisan support on legislation, and provide clear, fact-based analysis and resources.
  • Facilitate coalition communication and coordination, ensuring alignment and consistency in messaging and policy goals.
  • Identify opportunities for bipartisan collaboration and support for REFORM's legislative agenda.
• Team Leadership & Development:
  • Supervise regional Policy Manager, providing guidance and support to enhance their professional development and ensure they are meeting organizational objectives.
  • Delegate tasks effectively, ensuring that the policy team operates efficiently and meets organizational goals.

Qualifications:

• A law degree (J.D.) or an advanced degree in public policy, political science, or a related field is preferred.
• Substantial experience in public policy, particularly in criminal justice reform or a related area.
• Proven ability to navigate the legislative process, including drafting and advocating for legislation.

Skills:

• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable policy recommendations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
• Deep understanding of relevant state and federal laws, including the ability to draft and amend state and federal legislation.

Personal Attributes:

• Mission-Driven: Deep commitment to criminal justice reform and REFORM Alliance's mission.
• Collaborative: A team-oriented leader who fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Detail-Oriented: Highly attentive to details, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all work products.
• Adaptable: Capable of adjusting to changing priorities and working effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Our current benefits* include:

• Competitive salaries in the market of similar non-profit organizations
• Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other ancillary options.
• 20 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) during the first year of employment in addition to org-wide holidays (11), and winter shutdown during the last week of December
• 4% 401(k) match after 30 days of employment 
• Coverage of 100% of health insurance premiums for employees (health, vision & dental)
• $75.00 monthly cell phone reimbursement

*Please note that the organization reserves the right to change benefits at any time. 

About REFORM Alliance’s Culture:

At REFORM Alliance, we strive to move hearts and minds to create a more humane criminal justice system. This requires a company culture that values employee individuality and community development. We are committed to fostering an environment that is inclusive, empowering, and globally minded. We firmly believe that diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, sexual identity, cultural background, religion, disability, and age produces ideas and perspectives that make our efforts stronger for people unjustly in the system and make our communities safer.