Lead Writer, Policy Communications

Position Summary

The NAACP seeks a Lead Writer, Policy Communications to craft compelling and strategic policy communications that advance the organization's advocacy priorities. This role will serve as the primary liaison between the Communications and Policy & Advocacy teams, ensuring alignment in messaging and effective public engagement on key policy issues.

The ideal candidate is an exceptional writer with a deep understanding of public policy, advocacy, and racial and social justice issues. They will be responsible for developing clear, persuasive, and impactful content that communicates the NAACP's policy positions to a variety of audiences, including media, policymakers, partners, and the public.

Key Responsibilities

Liaison with Policy & Advocacy/Field Teams

• Work closely with the Policy & Advocacy teams to ensure communications align with legislative calendars, policy priorities and goals, and internal calendars.
• Monitor policy developments and emerging issues to proactively shape NAACP's communications strategy.
• Collaborate on rapid-response messaging to address timely policy issues.

Content Development

• Draft, edit, and refine speeches, op-eds, policy briefs, press statements, talking points, and other strategic communications that articulate NAACP's policy positions.
• Translate complex policy issues into accessible and engaging content for diverse audiences.
• Develop messaging frameworks and narratives to advance NAACP's advocacy initiatives.

Strategic Communications

• Provide strategic writing support for major NAACP campaigns, reports, and public statements.
• Support the development of advocacy toolkits, digital content, and social media messaging in coordination with digital and press teams.
• Ensure consistency in tone, voice, and messaging across policy communications.

Media & Public Engagement

• Draft op-eds, editorials, and public statements for leadership and subject matter experts.
• Support media engagement efforts by providing policy-focused messaging and talking points.
• Assist in preparing NAACP leaders for interviews, testimonies, and public speaking engagements.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 7+ years of experience in policy communications, speechwriting, journalism, public affairs, or a related field.
• Familiarity with thought leader influence in advocacy and policy press, Capitol Hill press, and think tanks.
• Deep knowledge of racial justice, civil rights, and public policy issues.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to craft compelling narratives.
• Experience working in advocacy, government, nonprofits, or political communications preferred.
• Strong ability to synthesize complex policy information into clear, accessible language.
• Proven experience in drafting high-impact speeches, opinion pieces, and policy communications.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects with tight deadlines.
• Collaborative mindset with strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to NAACP's mission.