Job Description

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:

The Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) has been a steadfast advocate for the Texas restaurant industry since 1937, providing essential resources to drive success and growth. TRA helps its members increase sales, reduce costs, and boost profitability. Membership with TRA also includes benefits from the National Restaurant Association and access to local chapters across Texas, significantly enhancing the value of the investment.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) is seeking a dynamic and motivated Advocacy and Public Affairs Intern to support our advocacy efforts, public affairs events, and fundraising, with a focus on Texas’ legislative session. This internship offers valuable hands-on experience in public policy, government relations, event coordination, and communications while working on behalf of the dynamic restaurant industry. As an intern, you will work closely with TRA leadership and the public affairs team, assisting in the planning and execution of key events and campaigns that directly impact the restaurant community in Texas.

This position is a six-month temporary, 1099 contract role, with the potential for extension or conversion to a permanent position. Please note that the contract length is subject to change. The role will average 30 hours per week.

DUTIES:

Legislative Session Support:

• Assist the President and CEO and the Chief Public Affairs Officer in implementing the TRA’s 89th legislative session agenda.
• Draft and revise advocacy content, such as one-pagers, talking points, social media posts, and newsletters.
• Track and analyze legislation that affects the restaurant industry.
• Help facilitate member involvement during the legislative session, for example by organizing restaurant testimony and collecting industry data.
• Monitor state agency and legislative meetings to flag potential concerns and opportunities for TRA leadership.

Capitol Day Planning and Execution:

• Design and implement a detailed strategy to ensure a successful TRA Texas Capitol Day event.
• Drive member participation and engagement before and throughout the event.
• Schedule and organize meetings with Texas legislative offices.
• Collaborate with the events team to facilitate a reception with successful advocacy and fundraising engagements.

Public Affairs Conference Support:

• Plan and execute strategies to ensure a successful annual public affairs conference in Washington, DC.
• Drive member participation and engagement before and throughout the event.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for National Restaurant Association staff and scheduling contractors regarding event-related matters.
• Plan and execute a strategy to maximize relationship building with legislative offices coming out of the conference.

Local Advocacy Coordination:

• Partner with Executive Directors and TRA leadership to ensure local advocacy objectives are on track and our approach is coherent and strategic across state chapters.

Advocacy Fundraising:

• Consistently track recurring donors to ensure missed payments and other issues are resolved quickly.
• Coordinate with the finance department to ensure accurate reporting of donations.
• Draft and send thank-you notes to donors, recognizing their support.
• Develop and design campaign materials and messaging to support fundraising efforts.
• Regularly report on fundraising progress, collaborate with team members, and track success against established goals.

Advocacy Webinars:

• Organize and execute scheduled webinars, collaborating with invited speakers and drafting a run of show for each.
• Work closely with the marketing department to boost webinar attendance.

Administrative and Logistical Support:

• Assist with logistical tasks, such as coordinating meetings, briefing materials, and meals at the Texas Capitol.
• Provide support for communication efforts related to the TRA’s advocacy work and ensure the smooth execution of key events and initiatives.

And all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

• Pursuing or completed a degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Communications, Law, or a related field. Or comparable experience.

Skills:

• Strong communication (written and verbal) and organizational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with social media platforms and Canva are a plus.
• Detail-oriented and accurate with the ability to manage multiple tasks at once.

Attributes:

• Passionate about public policy, advocacy, and the restaurant industry.
• Eager to learn and take on new challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional and enthusiastic, with the ability to interact with TRA members, stakeholders, and legislators of various political backgrounds.

The role requires some local (Texas) travel to support Association activities and one potential trip to Washington, DC, not exceeding 15-20% of total hours worked.

As the industry which the Association serves operates 24/7/365, role may at times require availability outside of standard “9 to 5” business hours, as needed, for activities like special events/meetings or to respond to emergency situations as needed and/or directed by TRA leadership.

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