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DIRECTOR OF NUTRITION

 

Full-Time Position | Based in Nashville TN | Salaried ($70,000 - $74,000 per year)

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Tennessee Justice Center is seeking a Director of Nutrition to lead our policy, advocacy, and systems change work focused on strengthening the food safety net for children and families. This position centers on SNAP, WIC, and related federal nutrition programs as tools to fight hunger and poverty in Tennessee. The ideal candidate will have a proven record of achieving results; will need to excel in a fast paced and challenging role that includes policy expertise, partner relationships, program and project management, strong communication and people skills. The person in this position will manage a small team and will work in close partnership with other TJC teams, including those who work on Medicaid and children’s health.

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About Tennessee Justice Center

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The Tennessee Justice Center works to ensure Tennesseans have access to essential health care and nutrition by combining legal advocacy, policy change, and coalition building, securing billions in assistance since 1996 while drawing directly from the real experiences of families across the state.

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Job Responsibilities

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  • Lead TJC’s policy agenda on SNAP, WIC, school and summer meal programs, and other federal benefits support programs for low-income households. 

  • Track and analyze federal and state legislation, regulations, and waivers; translate complex policy changes into clear recommendations for lawmakers, partners, and the public. 

  • Prepare policy briefs, public comments, testimony, and advocacy materials that explain how safety net programs affect children, families, and communities. 

  • Build and maintain relationships with state agencies, legislative staff, coalition partners, community organizations, and national advocacy groups. 

  • Coordinate grassroots and grasstops advocacy campaigns, including action alerts, legislative visits, and public comment efforts. 

  • Supervise staff working on outreach, enrollment, and client case stories related to SNAP, WIC, School Meals and other nutrition programs. 

  • Use data, client stories, and legal analysis to identify systemic barriers and propose concrete policy solutions. 

  • Represent TJC in statewide coalitions and national working groups focused on federal nutrition policy and safety net programs. 

  • Identify, maintain, and retain relationships with funders, e.g., foundations to create and sustain the work. 

  • Report on outcomes to funders, TJC management, and board and providing advice and recommendations for action. 

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Ideal Candidate

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  • Has deep interest in federal safety net programs and how they intersect with poverty, racial equity, and health. 

  • Is comfortable reading statutes, regulations, and budget language and turning them into plain English talking points and advocacy strategies. 

  • Enjoys both big picture policy work and the practical details of implementation at the state and local level. 

  • Can build trusting relationships with low-income communities, partners, and government officials, and is an effective public speaker and writer. 

 

Qualifications 

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  • At least three years public policy / advocacy experience 

  • Significant relevant education, training, and experience in issues affecting low-income communities 

  • At least three years experience leading a team or supervising staff.

  • Familiarity with legal and policy issues involving federal food and nutrition programs, especially the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) 

  • Excellent speaking and writing skills; the ability to talk about legal and other complex issues in clear, persuasive terms 

  • Strong interpersonal skills  

  • An elevated level of independence and initiative, good judgment, creativity, organization, and a willingness to work with others 

  • Commitment to economic and racial justice and to centering the experiences of people directly affected by hunger and poverty. 

 

What we offer 

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  • Leadership role shaping the safety net for families across Tennessee. 

  • Collaborative team environment with attorneys, advocates, and storytellers. 

  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement), with a focus on sustainable, quality jobs. 

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How To Apply

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Apply by submitting an application HERE.

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