Vice President, Policy and Law at Human Rights Campaign (HRC)

About HRC:

HRC is an equal opportunity employer that strongly encourages people of color, transgender, and non-binary people to apply. We welcome everyone, including non-LGBTQ+ individuals. HRC is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. Even if you don’t meet every qualification, you are encouraged to apply.

Position Summary:

The Vice President, Policy and Law is HRC’s primary strategist and advocate for policy. This executive leads development and execution of comprehensive advocacy strategies across all levels of government. The VP guides multidisciplinary teams—including government affairs, legal policy, and litigation—to drive transformative change for LGBTQ+ communities nationwide. This role also serves as HRC’s principal legal advisor on public policy matters and represents the organization publicly on legal and legislative issues. The position is hybrid/in-person at HRC headquarters in Washington, DC.

Position Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Department Oversight

• Set and lead strategic vision for HRC’s policy and legal agenda with SVP and senior leadership.
• Oversee Government Affairs, Legal Policy, and Litigation teams ensuring alignment and collaboration.
• Guide development of integrated short- and long-term advocacy strategies.
• Manage department budgets and contribute to cross-organizational strategy.
• Collaborate with Campaigns & Communications, Equality Programs, and Development teams for policy goals.

Government Affairs & Policy Advocacy

• Oversee federal and state legislative and administrative advocacy.
• Develop legislation, policy recommendations, and advocacy materials to advance LGBTQ+ equality.
• Serve as liaison to the Board’s Public Policy Committee and external stakeholders.

Legal Strategy & Litigation

• Lead legal strategy, overseeing impact litigation and amicus advocacy.
• Identify strategic litigation opportunities and collaborate with pro bono counsel.
• Oversee legal team’s analysis of policy proposals, regulations, and judicial trends.

External Engagement & Thought Leadership

• Represent HRC publicly on legal and policy matters, including media, conferences, and legislative bodies.
• Oversee development of briefs, reports, and research to advance LGBTQ+ policy goals.
• Ensure timely, accurate legal analysis and messaging for campaigns and educational programs.

Position Qualifications:

• J.D. required and licensed in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• 15+ years of legal, policy, and/or government affairs experience with senior leadership responsibilities.
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams and cross-functional strategies.
• Experience in legislative, administrative work, and advocacy; litigation experience preferred.
• Exceptional communicator with strategic vision and political acumen.
• Background in LGBTQ+ rights and civil rights law preferred.
• Commitment to HRC’s mission and LGBTQ+ rights.
• Willingness to travel and flexibility with work schedule, including evenings/weekends as needed.

Benefits:

• Relocation expenses covered
• Hybrid/in-person work at Washington, DC headquarters
• Competitive salary: $199,200 – $249,000/year

Apply Now:
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