OCEN Policy Director

The Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN) Policy Director is responsible for advancing OCEN’s policy agenda at the Ohio Statehouse, supporting Christian schools, and building strong relationships with lawmakers, state officials, and member schools.

Reports to: OCEN Executive Director

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm

Compensation: Full-time, Salaried/Exempt

Location: CCV Office in Columbus, Ohio, with Occasional Statewide Travel

Benefits: PTO (Paid Time Off), 10 Paid Holidays, Monthly Cell Phone Allotment, Mileage, Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance (CCV covers 75% of premium), Life Insurance, 3% Match on Retirement Plan Available after 1 Year

Key Responsibilities

Develop and advance the OCEN policy agenda for each General Assembly session in alignment with OCEN’s core values.

Build and maintain influential relationships with lawmakers, bureaucrats, and coalitions with like-minded advocacy groups.

Contribute to the broader CCV policy team through meetings, educational expertise, and participation in non-OCEN policy initiatives as needed.

Connect lawmakers with school leaders by facilitating school campus visits, hosting school leaders at the Statehouse, and promoting the value of Christian schools to lawmakers and their district.

Engage with grassroots groups to support promotion of the policy agenda.

Coordinate a leadership council of Christian school heads to provide feedback on member schools policy needs.

Communicate regularly with member schools regarding policy issues, compliance requirements, and other legal and legislative issues.

Serve as a liaison between members schools and state government, assisting schools in solving problems related to compliance, chartering, transportation, and other issues between schools and the state.

Other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications & Requirements

Skills and Experience

Undergraduate degree required.

5+ years of Christian school administration or 3+ years of lobbying experience.

Excellent written and oral communication skills. Capable of effectively communicating ideas before large groups of people.

Highly personable and eager to meet new people.

Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems.

Capable of envisioning new opportunities for schools and the growth of Christian education.

Character and Spiritual

Mature Christian, currently attending or pursuing attendance in a local church.

Agreement with and adherence to CCV’s Statement of Faith and Code of Conduct.

Demonstrated commitment to CCV’s mission and position on Core Issues.

Ability to work discreetly with confidential information.

Trustworthy, responsible, tactful, diplomatic, and focused on building consensus rather than emphasizing differences.

Maintain a high level of professionalism focused on client/constituent relationships.