Director of Advocacy

The Director of Advocacy maintains strategic and operational responsibility for the planning, execution, and evaluation of all advocacy programs of the Preservation Society of Charleston (PSC). He or she is also responsible for cultivating strategic relationships in the community and among public officials in order to further the PSC’s mission.

The Preservation Society of Charleston is the oldest grass roots preservation organization in the country. In recent years, the PSC has innovated its approach in such a way that while maintaining the more traditional activities of historic preservation, the organization supports a more livable, sustainable Charleston by addressing the challenges of overdevelopment, over-tourism, and flooding. The PSC supports good planning and good government by informing and inspiring an engaged citizenship, convening important and timely conversations, and collaborating with community partners to advocate for a well-planned city that promotes strong neighborhoods and vibrant commercial districts.

The Director of Advocacy (DA) directs the advocacy and the community outreach programs of the Preservation Society.

The Key Responsibilities of the Director of Advocacy are:
• Develop detailed goals and strategy to advance the PSC’s advocacy agenda, and lead a diverse array of preservation, urban design, planning and community outreach programs.
• Lead and bring together the necessary staff and resources to produce successful advocacy programs and communications for the Society.
• Develop and cultivate relationships with various community organizations, elected and appointed officials, and media outlets in order to expand the PSC’s reach and effectiveness.
• Build and coordinate new grassroots networks in support of PSC’s mission.
• Manage the advocacy message through a comprehensive media strategy encompassing print, broadcast, electronic, and social media, serve as a spokesperson for the organization as appropriate, develop advocacy positions and communicats them to the media, to community partners, to public officials and to the community at large.

Skills and Experience
• At least seven years broad-based experience in advocacy work, politics, public affairs, community outreach, or a closely related field. Specific experience in community planning, urban design, zoning and/or preservation/conservation preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree (Public or Business Administration, Community Development, Planning), or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s Degree preferred.
• Ability to develop and execute strategic programs and initiatives that build the capacity of the organization.
• Successful track record in engaging, motivating and supporting both staff and volunteers in achieving their maximum potential for the benefit of the organization.
• Experience overseeing and managing community outreach programs.
• Excellent communication skills and experience working with the media; proficiency with various social media platforms.
• Strong networking/interpersonal relationship skills.
• Ability to multi-task and maintain a high degree of flexibility and creativity within a fluid and fast-moving work environment.
• Strong team player who is positive and supportive of team members.
• Capacity to meet tight deadlines, and work well under pressure.
• Proficiency in the use of computer software; demonstrated understanding of GIS, advocacy software, WordPress and Mailchimp.

All qualified candidates should apply by submitting a cover letter and resume via email to Annie Levin, Director of Operations, at alevin@preservationsociety.org with ‘Director of Advocacy’ in the subject heading. No telephone calls, please.