Senior Policy & Research Deputy Director

State of Colorado; Denver (CO); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave

Sick leave

10 holidays per year

Medical and dental plans

Life insurance

Retirement plans

Job summary

State of Colorado is seeking a Deputy Director of Policy and Research to join the Governor’s Office and Senior Leadership teams. You will help manage the Policy and Research team, advise senior officials, and coordinate with legislators to advance the Governor’s agenda.

Ideal candidates will have deep public policy experience, strong communication skills, and a track record in policy development, budget processes, and stakeholder engagement across education and related policy areas.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years work-related experience; Bachelor’s Degree in relevant fields helpful.
• Public policy analysis and development skills, as demonstrated by professional and/or academic experience.
• Detail oriented and organized with the ability to work in a fast paced environment.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Familiarity with governmental and legislative processes.
• Experience and expertise in policy areas of public safety and labor-related issues is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the Director of Policy and Research in supervising policy staff and ensuring quality counsel to the Governor and other members of Senior Staff to achieve the goals of the office and advance the Governor's agenda.
• Directly advise the Director of Policy and Research, Governor, Lt. Governor and Senior Staff on general policy matters.
• Coordinate closely with senior executive staff across state agencies to ensure alignment and advancement of administration priorities.
• Coordinate closely with the Governor's legislative team and agency legislative liaisons on key agenda items and priorities in preparation for and during the legislative session.
• Support the policy and budget teams in the development of the Governor’s annual budget request.
• Engage external stakeholders as appropriate to inform and advance administration priorities.
• Assist with office communications, including talking points, press inquiries, speeches, and memos, to ensure consistency and maximize strategic opportunities.

Skills

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Public policy

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant fields

Job description

State of Colorado is seeking a Deputy Director of Policy and Research to join the Governor’s Office and Senior Leadership teams. You will help manage the Policy and Research team, advise senior officials, and coordinate with legislators to advance the Governor’s agenda.

Ideal candidates will have deep public policy experience, strong communication skills, and a track record in policy development, budget processes, and stakeholder engagement across education and related policy areas.