ECAS Policy Lead

Job Description 

This position will work closely with the ECAS Backbone Team, ECAS Conveners, government and nongovernment partners and those with lived expertise, to maximize the ECAS Networkʻs impact in moving progressive early childhood development policy priorities forward at the state, county and organizational levels. 

Position Summary: The Policy Lead will use the ECAS Policy Framework and the Commit to Keiki Policy Framework as organizing tools to work with partners on translating strategic plans, data and research into effective policy action. 

Responsibilities include: 

  • Provide facilitation support and leadership in the development and implementation of policy priorities impacting early childhood development via the ECAS Network Policy Agenda and/or Commit to Keiki; 

  • Lead and support the ECAS network and partners to position themselves as key thought leaders and partners to elected leaders; 

  • Draft, take lead on and lobby for legislative proposals in support of Team and Network priorities; 

  • Facilitate conversations with those with lived expertise across the islands to strengthen policy priorities and to help connect those with lived expertise with policy makers; 

  • Lead in community-building strategies at the local and national levels, that support key priorities; 

  • Maintain key relationships with partner policy and advocacy organizations; 

  • Engage in outreach, education and relationship-building with key legislators and political staff 

  • Provide reliable, timely analysis and strategic guidance on the ECAS network legislative activities during legislative session; 

  • Develop and disseminating materials regarding legislative developments to partners, policy makers and the media; 

  • Conduct and/or commissioning research as necessary; and 

  • Take other steps necessary to develop and advance the ECAS Networkʻs policy priorities. 

Qualifications: 

  • Extensive knowledge of Hawai`iʻs legislative and administrative processes. 

  • Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration,or equivalent combination of education/experience. 

  • A broad understanding of state, county and federal policies that pertain to young children and families.

  • Demonstrated experience translating strategic plans, data and research into legislation and/or policy recommendations. 

  • Understanding of and commitment to social change through building the capacity and power of staff within organizations that serve young children to participate directly in changing public policies. 

  • Understanding of and commitment to social change through building the capacity and power of families to participate directly in changing public policies. 

  • Excellent policy, consensus-building, and leadership skills; demonstrated ability to work collegially and collaboratively with diverse partners and other organizations 

  • Demonstrated ability to work with groups and individuals across the political spectrum. 

  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and oral; experience as a public spokesperson and advocate 

  • Ability to analyze and articulate legal concepts, legislative and regulatory language and other complex issues and to communicate them to a variety of audiences; 

  • The ability to produce consistent, quality work in a fast-paced environment. 

  • Ability to build relationships with relevant policy partners. 

  • Commitment to advancing social justice. 

  • Project management experience including coordinating the work of other professionals inside and outside an organization. 

  • Comfort in working on topics such as prenatal access, postnatal care and support, reproductive health, abortion access, family violence prevention, early intervention, home visiting, mental health and child care and early learning 


This position reports to: ECAS Executive Director 

Travel Requirements: Mild unless on a neighbor island and travel requirements to O`ahu during legislative session between January-May might be high 

Salary & benefits: Salary commensurate with experience and ranges from $85,000- 100,000. Collaborative Support Services Inc. (the 501c3 backbone organization of the Early Childhood Action Strategy) offers an excellent benefits package, which includes 3 weeks of annual paid vacation; 3 months paid parental leave; additional paid holiday leave between December 24 and January 1; 4% employer contribution to retirement account, professional development and a choice of generous health insurance plans. AND you get to work on a hard working, fun and inspiring team. 😊

This position is located in Hawai`i. 

Closing Date of Position: Open Until Filled 

How to apply: Please submit a cover letter sharing your personal interest as well as salary expectations, a resume, and two writing samples to Kerrie Urosevich at kerrie@ecashawaii.org. If you have any questions, please direct them to Kerrie via email or call/text at 808-381-9635. 

Collaborative Support Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer Our commitment to diversity includes the recognition that our mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our network is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law. 

Job posted: 

Where legally permissible, Collaborative Support Services inc. requires all new employees to be fully vaccinated and willing to keep up to date with vaccines that protect against COVID-19. By accepting an offer of employment, you agree to comply with this requirement, unless you are entitled to a legally mandated exemption.

Kerrie Urosevich