Closing Date: 1st November, 2025
Description:
Position Description:Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Policy and Strategic Planning is a senior leader responsible for shaping the Harris County Public Defender's Office's policy agenda and driving the implementation of its strategic plan. This role combines legislative and policy expertise with strong project management skills to advance equitable, client-centered defense services and improve outcomes for people impacted by the criminal legal system.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Legislative and Policy Work:
- Monitor, analyze, and draft legislation, regulations, and local policies affecting indigent defense and criminal justice reform.
- Advise the Chief Public Defender and senior leadership on the impact of proposed laws and policy changes.
- Develop policy positions, talking points, and testimony for use in legislative sessions, hearings, and stakeholder meetings.
- Build and maintain relationships with lawmakers, county officials, advocacy groups, and justice system partners to promote evidence-based reforms.
- Strategic Planning and Project Management:
- Lead the implementation and tracking of the office's strategic plan, ensuring goals, objectives, and performance measures are met.
- Coordinate cross-departmental projects, set timelines, and report progress to leadership, oversight bodies, and community stakeholders.
- Identify opportunities for innovation and recommend process improvements to enhance client outcomes and organizational efficiency.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Requirements:
Education and Experience:
- Juris Doctor, Master of Public Policy/Administration, or a related advanced degree from an accredited college or university.
- At least five (5) years of experience in legislative affairs, criminal justice policy, strategic planning, or related fields.
- Demonstrated success in managing complex projects from conception through implementation.
Note: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
General Information:
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
- Regular Full-time
- Monday - Friday | 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Salary:
- Depends on Qualifications
- Based on 26 pay periods
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
