Public Affairs Manager

Public Affairs Manager

The Public Affairs Manager is a strategic, advocacy-driven role responsible for advancing CommuniCare+OLE's mission through public relations, government affairs, and policy engagement. This position elevates the organization's voice with policymakers, media, and community partners, with a strong focus on protecting and expanding public funding, shaping healthcare policy, and advocating for the communities we serve.

The ideal candidate has at least five years of experience in public relations and government affairs—ideally within healthcare or a mission-driven environment—and brings cultural humility, political savvy, and a deep commitment to health equity. Experience working with Latino/Hispanic communities and multilingual or cultural competency skills are highly valued.

CommuniCare+OLE provides an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity and life experience. CommuniCare+OLE encourages people of all backgrounds to apply including, but not limited to, Black, Indigenous Peoples, people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, veterans, individuals of all ages and religions, and individuals who have been affected by the legal system. You are welcome here.

Minimum Position Requirements: Education, Experience, Skills/Training

Education: Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Communications, Public Administration or other relevant field desired, or comparable experience required.

Experience/Lived Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in public relations, communications, government affairs, or public policy. Experience in healthcare, public health, government, or a mission-driven organization strongly preferred. Bilingual or multilingual skills (Spanish highly desirable).

Special Skills/Training: Demonstrated success working with policymakers and managing media relationships. Excellent writing skills with the ability to translate complex healthcare and policy issues into clear, compelling messages. Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills. Experience in the healthcare safety net, FQHCs, or community-based organizations. Experience working with all levels within a mid- to large-size organization. Experience working with diverse populations, particularly Latino/Hispanic communities. Knowledge of California and federal healthcare policy and funding environments.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities and Competencies

1 - Proficient in multiple software and database systems, including Salesforce and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities effectively.

Maintains a high level of professionalism; performs effectively in fast-paced environments, responds well under pressure, treats others with respect, takes accountability and follows through on commitments.

Demonstrated commitment to delivering excellent customer service, is collaborative, adaptable and action-oriented.

Maintains strong relationships with internal staff, vendors, community members, and colleagues through courteous and clear communication.

Demonstrate cultural and linguistic competency, particularly when engaging Latino/Hispanic communities. Support bilingual or culturally tailored communications when appropriate.

Advocacy and Government Affairs

1. Lead and coordinate advocacy strategies that support FQHC sustainability, healthcare access, and health equity at the local, state, and federal levels.

2. Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, government agencies, Chambers of Commerce, legislative staff, and policy influencers.

3. Support the CEO with tracking, analyzing, and responding to legislation, regulations, and policy developments impacting community health centers.

4. Organize and support legislative visits, site tours, briefings, coalition work, and advocacy campaigns.

5. Draft policy briefs, testimony, fact sheets, and advocacy communications that clearly articulate CommuniCare+OLE's impact and policy priorities.

6. Coordinate with Outreach, Enrollment and other internal teams on advocacy campaigns.

Public and Media Relations

7. Develop and execute proactive public relations campaigns that raise awareness of CommuniCare+OLE's role in the overall eco-system in the communities we serve.

8. Serve as primary media contact; pitch stories and manage relationships with local, regional, and healthcare media. Maintains and updates contact records in the CRM, including campaign tagging and data integrity.

9. Write and edit press releases, statements, op-eds, talking points, and messaging for executives, board members and clinicians.

Prepare organizational leaders for media interviews, public speaking, and advocacy engagements.

Curate and create quarterly newsletters that elevate patient and community stories in an ethical, respectful, and culturally appropriate way.

Identify, track and submit for awards and speaking opportunities.

Support crisis communications and rapid-response advocacy as needed.

Performs other duties as assigned.