Data-Driven Policy Lead for Justice Systems

Council Of State Governments; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 84,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

The Policy Manager at the Council of State Governments Justice Center leads project execution, provides subject-matter guidance, and supports strategic policy initiatives across state, local, and Tribal partners.

The role emphasizes relationship-building with government officials, data-informed decision making, and delivering high-quality policy products, with NYC metro area preferred (hybrid) and remote consideration. Salary is set with funding through June 2027 and extension possible.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of relevant work experience and/or equivalent educational achievements.
• Strong interpersonal skills including self-awareness, sensitivity and valuing others.
• Ability to engage, lead, and manage project teams to successfully deliver on project goals/deliverables.
• Ability to solicit, facilitate and lead new project ideas from team members in support of the project's overall strategic direction with division leadership.
• Ability to identify and leverage other internal and external projects that advance their project priorities.
• Demonstrated success in developing strategic project plans that clarify project objectives, ensure alignment with organizational goals, applies the project's theory of change, and impacts the field.
• Demonstrated experience successfully managing large projects across multiple teams/divisions and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Execution: Manage one or more projects, including planning, risk and contract management, collaboration with senior staff on funder updates and reports, timelines, deliverables, and staff coordination.
• Field Expertise & Technical Assistance: Conduct calls with sites to identify TA needs, support data analysis, and develop written products and presentations.
• Task Direction & Stakeholder Engagement: Provide direction and identify stakeholders and funders to advance opportunities.
• External Engagement & Relationship Building: Update external partners and engage new contacts as consultants or partners.
• Cross-Team Coordination & Organizational Contribution: Participate in project management processes and internal committees.
• Impact, Quality Assurance & Accountability: Ensure accuracy and quality, adherence to timelines, and evaluate project impact.

Skills

Project leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Policy writing

Job description

The Policy Manager at the Council of State Governments Justice Center leads project execution, provides subject-matter guidance, and supports strategic policy initiatives across state, local, and Tribal partners.

The role emphasizes relationship-building with government officials, data-informed decision making, and delivering high-quality policy products, with NYC metro area preferred (hybrid) and remote consideration. Salary is set with funding through June 2027 and extension possible.