Policy Advisor

The Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) is a nonprofit membership organization established in 1958. Our mission is to create a healthy, vibrant downtown for all by advocating on issues including transportation, economic development, and the urban experience. As a member-based organization, DSA advances policies and advocacy efforts that support downtown businesses, nonprofits, property owners, residents, and visitors. We work closely with city and county leaders, neighborhood organizations, nonprofits, business groups, and government agencies to champion a thriving, welcoming, and economically competitive downtown.

About the role

The Policy Advisor supports DSA’s public policy, advocacy, and economic development priorities by conducting policy research and analysis, developing policy recommendations, managing strategic partnerships, and advancing initiatives that strengthen downtown Seattle. Reporting to the Vice President of Advocacy & Economic Development, this role serves as a key partner in advancing DSA’s strategic priorities and representing the organization on issues impacting Seattle’s urban core. This is a full-time, onsite position based in DSA's office 5 days a week.

Responsibilities

• Support the implementation of DSA’s strategic plan by developing and advancing policy solutions that support a vibrant, safe, welcoming, and economically competitive downtown.
• Conduct policy research, legislative and regulatory analysis, issue tracking, and data collection activities to inform DSA’s advocacy strategies and government affairs initiatives.
• Develop and present policy recommendations, economic development initiatives, and incentive programs that promote downtown Seattle’s long-term growth.
• Analyze and present transportation, public safety, and public realm data for audiences such as public officials and community stakeholders to support policy development and advocacy initiatives.
• Build and maintain productive relationships and partnerships with public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders that advance DSA’s policy priorities, advocacy efforts, and economic development initiatives, including government agencies, elected officials, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations.
• Manage consultants, research projects, contracts, and grant-funded initiatives related to advocacy and economic development priorities.
• Represent DSA at meetings, public hearings, task forces, coalitions, and community forums, providing public comment when appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Three (3) years working in public policy, government relations, economic development, nonprofit advocacy, public affairs, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects, consultants, or cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to exercise strategic judgment and diplomacy in a wide variety of public situations and high-profile issues.
• Knowledge of public policy issues impacting economic development of downtown and urban areas.
• Experience building consensus and navigating complex stakeholder relationships.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Well-developed presentation and facilitation skills.

Nice to Have

• Familiarity with city, county, state, and federal government structures and legislative and political processes.
• Experience with grassroots advocacy, community organizing, and lobbying.

Pay

$85,000 annual salary.

Benefits

• Employer-paid full medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Short and long-term disability, life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with 5% employer match.
• 9 paid holidays plus generous vacation and personal holidays that increase with tenure.
• Sick leave in accordance with Washington State Sick & Safe Leave law.
• Annual ORCA transit pass.
• First Choice EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
• Flexible Spending Account.