Head of Public Policy

About Braven

Braven is a national nonprofit dedicated to preparing promising college students to secure a strong first opportunity after graduation through a career-accelerating program. We partner with higher education and employer organizations to deliver a life-changing experience that begins with a semester-long course and continues with support through graduation. Our collective ambition is to help rebuild the middle class and revitalize the American Dream.

About the Role

As the Head of Public Policy, you will lead Braven's Federal, State, and Local policy work as a key member of the External Affairs Team. Reporting directly to the Chief External Affairs Officer, your mission is to design and execute a comprehensive policy strategy that shapes the college-to-career field. This role is critical to achieving our goal of serving 80,000 to 100,000 Fellows over the next decade.

In this position, you will serve as the strategic voice for Braven, cultivating relationships with the Department of Education, the White House, Congress, and state legislative bodies. You will drive the narrative around our impact, manage state lobbying contracts, and lead a coalition of organizations in the sector. Your day-to-day involves translating complex policy landscapes into compelling stories for policymakers, coordinating advocacy campaigns, and mentoring a team to execute our vision. You will also play a pivotal role in our annual Capitol Hill Advocacy Day and the Policy Fellows program, bringing Braven's student Fellows to the center of the policy conversation.

Hiring Process

Our interview process is designed to assess both your strategic fit and your practical capabilities. While specific steps may vary, the general flow includes:

1. Phone Screen: An initial conversation with a Talent Team member.
2. Performance Task: A practical assignment to demonstrate your strategic thinking and writing skills.
3. Hiring Manager Interview: A deep dive into your experience and vision.
4. Panel Interview: A meeting with key partners to assess cultural fit and collaboration style.
5. Reference Checks: Verification of your professional background.

Our Culture & Commitment to Diversity

Braven is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor. We actively encourage talented individuals of all backgrounds to apply, believing that diverse perspectives are essential to our mission of rebuilding the middle class.

We believe in the power of face-to-face collaboration. While we offer flexibility with a hybrid work model (in-office Tuesday through Thursday), we gather in our hubs to foster connection and innovation. We are committed to internal and external equity in our compensation and benefits, ensuring that every team member is valued fairly based on their qualifications and impact.