Government Relations Manager

The Government Relations Manager will advocate for the Jewish community of Southern New Jersey with elected officials by building key relationships and representing the community as needed.   This person will serve as a legislative liaison to elected officials to advocate for the security and support for the State of Israel, to combat antisemitism, advocate for security funding, disability services, senior services and other opportunities system wide.   Additionally, this position will organize the community and train community advocates to be civically engaged and provide training to combat antisemitism within our community.  This position will support the Federation system by learning of funding opportunities on the state and federal level to support our services and programs. 

Job Responsibilities:

Legislative Relations & Advocacy:

• Establish and maintain relationships with local, state, and national lawmakers, as well as national and state Jewish organizations (JFNJ, JCPA, JFNA, ADL, AJC, AIPAC).
• Advocate on public policy issues affecting the Jewish community, including combating antisemitism, supporting Israel, and addressing church/state concerns.
• Monitor and report on local, state, and national news impacting the community, keeping leadership informed.
• Plan legislative visits and candidate forums, engaging lay leadership to inform lawmakers on key community issues.
• Work with JCRC colleagues statewide and nationally as part of the broader Jewish community network.
• Community Engagement & Crisis Management:
• Build relationships and develop partnerships with leaders from diverse community groups (racial, ethnic, faith-based, LGBTQ) to foster mutual respect and reduce tensions.
• Represent and speak on behalf of JCRC at events, programs, and public engagements.
• Support crisis response efforts, addressing antisemitic incidents with constituent support, education, and public engagement.
• Work with local leaders, school administrations, and elected officials to mediate and educate on antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiments.

JCRC Committee Work & Operations:

• Assist in staffing the JCRC, ensuring diverse representation and effective leadership across committees.
• Support the JCRC Executive Director in setting strategic goals, managing workflows, and prioritizing initiatives.
• Plan and facilitate JCRC Government Affairs committee meetings, ensuring positive committee experiences and consensus on policy discussions.
• Oversee JCRC/Federation logistics, including budgeting, communications, and event planning for government related programs
• Create and implement community programs, educational activities, and initiatives aligned with JCRC/Federation priorities.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s (or Master’s) Degree in a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5-8 years of experience in community relations, government relations, social action, or Jewish community service.
• Experience in community organizing, advocacy, and working with diverse volunteer groups.
• Strong understanding of antisemitism, Israel advocacy, and the complexities of intercommunity relations.
• Exceptional communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to present complex issues clearly.
• Proven ability to build consensus, manage projects, and work collaboratively in a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with the Southern New Jersey Jewish community, local legislators, and relevant national organizations.
• Intermediate level of experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and digital tools for community engagement.
• Local travel required. Evening and weekend work hours.

Additional Requirements:

• Work with development staff to provide content for fundraising events, communications, and programs.
• Undertake other assignments as directed by management.
• Strong commitment to the mission of the Federation.
• High level of integrity and professionalism in handling sensitive matters. 
• Ability to handle confidential issues with diplomacy and discretion.

EEO Statement:

The Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey, and our family of agencies, is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon a person’s actual or perceived gender, race, creed, color, sex (including pregnancy), affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital/civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, veteran or military status, disability that does not prohibit performance of essential job functions, or other legally protected characteristics.

The Federation participates in the E-Verify program.

The Federation is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us via the link on this posting. EOE