Position Overview
This role is responsible for advancing public safety policy through direct engagement with local leaders and community stakeholders across Illinois. Reporting to the Director of Public Affairs, the manager will serve as a key liaison between the organization and municipal decision-makers, helping to shape conversations around safety solutions and community impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Engage with city councils, elected officials, and community organizations to foster collaboration and mutual understanding
- Deliver formal testimony and presentations at local government meetings
- Develop and maintain strategic partnerships that align with public safety objectives
- Amplify the voices of program beneficiaries to inform policy advocacy
- Monitor and analyze regional legislative activity affecting public safety initiatives
- Build and execute a consistent communication strategy for stakeholder outreach
- Establish credibility with diverse audiences, including policymakers, advocacy groups, and grassroots networks
- Gain in-depth knowledge of product offerings and connect public affairs efforts to regional goals
- Support coalition-building across political lines to advance shared priorities
Qualifications
- Must be based in the Chicago, Illinois area
- Proven experience working with local government officials or on political campaigns
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical topics clearly to non-experts
- Familiarity with city- and county-level political environments
- Experience managing relationships with community-based organizations
- Self-driven with a problem-solving mindset and adaptability in fast-moving environments
- Willingness to travel on short notice and accommodate evening meetings
- Background in public policy, business, or related field
Preferred Experience
- Technology sector experience
- Existing network of contacts within the region’s civic and policy circles
Work Environment
This is a locally based role requiring presence in Chicago. The team operates with urgency and focus, valuing collaboration, accountability, and innovative thinking. Success requires initiative, resilience, and a commitment to measurable impact.
