Public Policy Advisor

This position would be expected to follow a hybrid model of reporting to work that combines in-office workdays and work-from-home days with the expectation that the incumbent may be required to adjust their schedule as operationally necessary. The primary work location is downtown Boston; however, the incumbent might be needed on occasion to assist with specific meetings/events outside of the downtown Boston location.

The position serves an important role in policy development and strategy for OCABR. The Public Policy Advisor role is responsible for conducting policy and programmatic research and analysis and making recommendations on these matters to the Undersecretary, Deputy Undersecretary, and Constituent and Legislative Affairs Director. The incumbent will coordinate policy and programmatic analysis and contribute to policy-related projects across OCABR. This may include tracking major issues and initiatives and conducting research related to policy and legislative trends that affect OCABR agencies, programs, and policy.

Day-to-day activities may include: preparing or assisting in the preparation of reports, letters, and presentations; researching issues and legislation and generating data to support positions; assisting the Constituent and Legislative Affairs Director in the development of responses, comments and testimony; and working on unique policy-related projects assigned by the Undersecretary, Deputy Undersecretary and/or Constituent and Legislative Affairs Director.

To excel in this role, the preferred candidate should be able to work well under pressure, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and thrive in a fast-paced environment. They should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and be able to collaborate effectively with colleagues both within and outside of the Office. The ability to meet strict deadlines and maintain a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, as well as confidentiality, is critical.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and organized individual to join a dedicated team committed to protecting the consumers and businesses of the Commonwealth. The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation is looking for someone who shares their passion for making a difference and is ready to contribute their skills, energy, and expertise to this important mission.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

Conduct relevant public policy, legislative and regulatory research; provide analysis of trends in other jurisdictions; contribute to presentations and memos.

Assist and support OCABR leadership on implementation of programs to achieve policy goals. Attend meetings and provide policy perspective/input.

Work on policy-related special projects assigned by the Undersecretary, Deputy Undersecretary, Constituent and Legislative Affairs Director and/or agencies

Obtaining policy information in advance of public announcements periodically poses challenges. Coordination can be difficult due to busy schedules and issues competing for attention. This position requires extreme organization, diligence in research, and the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.

You are expected to make decisions prioritizing tasks and assignments and methodologies for carrying out tasks and assignments.

Responsible for conducting policy and programmatic analysis and making recommendations on these matters to the Undersecretary, Deputy Undersecretary, Constituent and Legislative Affairs Director, and Commissioner(s). The incumbent is also responsible for coordinating policy and programmatic analysis and making recommendations on these matters within and across OCABR on projects of particular sensitivity or policy impact.

OCABR Undersecretary, OCABR Deputy Undersecretary, Constituent and Legislative Affairs Director, OCABR General Counsel, Commissioner(s), agencies' General Counsels. As you work on policy matters individuals with subject matter expertise may review and comment on your work, including editing written work. Ability to receive and be responsive to comments is required to excel in this role.

The role will primarily engage with internal OCABR staff daily and may engage with agency staff and legislative staff. Occasionally, the individual may attend external policy meetings on behalf of the agency. Staff support may be requested for meetings with external stakeholders involving the EOED Secretary, Undersecretaries, Commissioners, and other senior staff.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• At least two (2) years of experience working in the Legislature or experience working on policy or regulatory issues in local government

• Excellent writing and research skills and the ability to mine information for data

• Excellent interpersonal, presentation, and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse groups of people

• Excellent organizational and planning skills with attention to detail

• Ability to interpret federal and state policies, statutes and regulations

• Strong ability to assimilate and analyze programs, policy, and other relevant materials

• Excellent time management skills with proven ability to multi-task effectively, work independently and meet deadlines on short notice

• Ability to function in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment

• Ability to work with poise in a highly professional environment

• Comfortable working with high-level officials/C-level

• Curious to learn new topics and ability to learn new topics quickly

• High level of comfort using software and technology, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and SharePoint

• Critical thinker and problem solver

• Ability to exercise sound judgment

• Ability to establish rapport and maintain harmonious working relationships with others

• Highly motivated, eager to learn, and quick on your feet

• You have an agile mindset

• You are actively forward-looking and pre-emptive of questions

• You can take directions quickly and get things done

• You are flexible, driven, creative, and an achiever

• You can facilitate when asked; you can follow when asked

• You quickly roll up your sleeves and pivot at a moment's notice

• You can quickly change and adapt to changing priorities

• You are a team player and eager to help.

Qualifications

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have at least (A) five (5) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, professional internship, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.

Substitutions:

I. A certificate in a relevant or related field may be substituted for one (1) year of the required experience.

II. A Bachelor's degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience.

III. A Graduate degree in a related field may be substituted for three (3) years of the required experience.

IV. A Doctorate degree in a related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the required experience.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.