Public Interest

New Orleans, LA, United States

Legal Staff Other in New Orleans, LA

Legal Staff

9-12 yrs required

No

Associate Director, Vera Louisiana - Eliminating Mass Incarceration and Advancing Racial Justice

Are you passionate about transforming the criminal legal and immigration systems to be fair for all? Do you want to work towards ending mass incarceration and creating safe, thriving communities in Louisiana? If so, the **** is looking for an Associate Director to join our team in New Orleans or remotely within Louisiana.

About the Organization:

The **** was founded in 1961 with the mission to advocate for alternatives to money bail in New York City. Today, we are a national organization that partners with impacted communities and government leaders for change. Our staff of 224 people is dedicated to developing just, antiracist solutions to ensure that money doesn’t determine freedom, fewer people are in jails, prisons, and immigration detention, and everyone is treated with dignity. We value diversity in the workplace and expect our staff to embody respect, independence, collaboration, commitment, anti-racism, and equity in both our outward-facing work and internal culture.

About the Team:

Since 2006, Vera has been working in New Orleans to safely reduce the jail population and pilot alternatives to address the needs of New Orleanians outside of the criminal legal system. We have become a leader in advancing evidence-based reform and have proven that change is possible. Our work in Louisiana focuses on two priorities: increasing investments in thriving communities and addressing the state’s impact on mass incarceration.

About the Role:

As the Associate Director, you will manage and support policy development and advocacy efforts to end mass incarceration and secure investments in safe, thriving communities in Louisiana. You will work closely with the program director to develop policy and advocacy strategies, collaborate with government and community leaders, and draft policy reports and memos. Additionally, you will represent Vera Louisiana at meetings, public hearings, and conferences, and build and maintain relationships with elected officials and advocates across the state.

What Qualifications Are We Looking For?

- with 9-12 years of relevant experience or equivalent work or educational background
- Deep understanding of the Louisiana criminal legal system and ability to discuss race equity issues within it
- Demonstrated ability to manage projects and supervise staff
- Experience designing and running advocacy projects and working with diverse teams and backgrounds
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience producing written communication for various audiences

Preferred Qualifications:

- Juris doctor or graduate degree in a relevant field or equivalent work experience
- Lived experience as a person directly impacted by the criminal legal system
- Experience managing or leading a team and designing successful advocacy campaigns
- Ability to work with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, criminal legal system personnel, and advocates

Location:

This is a full-time position based in New Orleans or remotely within Louisiana.

Compensation and Benefits:

The salary range for this position is $129,000 - $134,000, with actual salaries varying based on experience and performance. In addition to competitive pay, Vera offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, a comprehensive health insurance plan, student loan repayment benefits, professional development opportunities, and more.

Application Process:

To be considered for this role, applicants will be asked to answer preliminary questions and may be required to provide additional information about their experience. Selected candidates will then participate in a virtual or in-person interview with the team. Some searches may also include an assessment and reference checks.

To apply, please submit your application online, by mail, or by fax. Only one method of submission should be used.

Vera is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that values diversity and is committed to advancing justice and racial equity. We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences, including those who have been directly impacted by the criminal legal system, to apply. For more information about Vera, please visit our website at ****.

Legal