Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS just created a seat at the table for an
Advocacy Representative. Do you want to make a real impact in local communities through advocacy and outreach? Are you ready to be both a steady presence in the community and a strategic partner behind the scenes? Do you value structure but thrive on variety-able to follow policy, adapt to change, and connect with people from all walks of life?
We may be looking for you.
Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS is seeking an Advocacy Representative to help advance its mission of protecting property rights and strengthening communities. This role will build partnerships with local government agencies, drive public policy initiatives, and enhance the visibility and impact of REALTORS across Cuyahoga, Summit, and Portage Counties.
We are looking for an analytical, outgoing, and diplomatic individual with a deep passion for improving the lives of the people in their community. The ideal candidate will have the ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders in the community in order to both uphold the ACAR values and mission, as well as advance ACAR's strategic initiatives. Strong written and verbal communication skills are a must.
Join the Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS team and work for a professional trade association comprised of over 5,000 real estate professionals engaged in the industry. At ACAR, you'll become part of a community that genuinely cares about each other's success. There is an abundance of opportunities to grow and develop while working with a seasoned, empathetic, and high-performing team.
Responsibilities include: - Collaborating with housing nonprofits and government agencies across Cuyahoga, Summit, and Portage Counties to support real estate-focused initiatives
- Building relationships within neighborhoods and municipalities to position REALTORS as trusted, engaged local leaders
- Representing ACAR at local council meetings, community events, and other public forums to advance advocacy positions in partnership with the Vice President of Advocacy
- Leveraging National Association of REALTORS grants to address affordable housing, community development, revitalization, and Fair Housing education and initiatives
- Identifying and monitoring local proposals that may negatively impact the real estate industry or business climate for ACAR members and their communities
- Partnering with the Vice President of Advocacy and Communications Department to support public affairs and consumer outreach strategies that influence policy and strengthen ACAR's reputation
- Drafting content for internal and external communications, including blog posts, letters to elected officials, and advocacy materials
- Creating and distributing program materials to enhance awareness and impact of ACAR's initiatives
- Serving as staff liaison to the Community Outreach Council, Legislative Committee, and Portage County Chapter; organizing REALTOR Give Back Days and other fundraising events
- Leading and managing assigned projects, including event planning, execution, and budget oversight
- Overseeing the Community Fund, managing the grant application and award process, and coordinating fundraising efforts
- Managing and promoting ACAR's Good Neighbor program to highlight and support REALTOR involvement in the community
Knowledge and skills required: - Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially in Excel and Mail Merge)
- Strong knowledge of social media
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities
- Ability to multi-task and manage multiple priorities
Experience: We are looking for at least two years of professional experience in government relations, community outreach, or engagement, with direct exposure to community-based organizations. The ideal candidate will have experience setting clear goals, measuring results, and using data and research to guide strategy, while effectively managing programs within budget limitations. Strong problem-solving skills, project management abilities, and a resourceful, solutions-oriented mindset are essential. Experience with fundraising is a plus, and prior work with volunteers or within a trade association is preferred.
Education: - Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Community Organization, Business Administration, or related field
- Basic understanding of Local Government
Salary and Benefits: The salary range is $45,000-$60,000 yearly depending on experience. The compensation package includes a 401(k) with matching, Medical, Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance.
To arrange a confidential interview, send a
résumé by responding to this ad or contact
ACAR is an equal opportunity employer and we value an inclusive work environment.
About Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS : The Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS , abbreviated ACAR, is a professional organization for real estate professionals who sell real property and businesses that work in or with the real estate industry. ACAR provides a variety of services to its members including education, insurance, affinity programs and legislative representation, as well as membership in the Ohio Realtors (OR) and the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
Members who hold the title REALTOR are licensed real estate professionals who choose to voluntarily subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics that is above and beyond the law. The word REALTOR is a registered trademark that can only be used by members of a local, state, and national association of REALTORS . People who do not subscribe to the strict Code of Ethics are not members of a REALTOR association and are simply real estate licensees.