Summary

American Progress is seeking a Director of Elections to join the Democracy team in its Structural Reform and Governance department. The Democracy team is dedicated to taking swift action to strengthen the guardrails of democracy, in a way that equips it to serve as a force for good. This position will manage a broad election and voting rights policy portfolio that includes work to improve election administration, combat voter suppression and sabotage, promote pro-voter and election systems reforms, advance election security priorities, and ensure fair representation. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in election administration, a strong understanding of America’s racial history and structural inequality, and experience working with government institutions at the local, state, or federal level. The candidate will have executive or legislative branch experience, established relationships with key players in the field, and will lead research and advocacy teams on election matters. The Director will build on strong existing relationships with outside stakeholders, including allied organizations, policymakers, and the media, to advance the team’s goals.

They will be driven by American Progress’ mission to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action, with the aim of not only changing the conversation, but changing the country.

This leader will think strategically about turning ideas into action, collaborating with teams across American Progress and working in coalition with other organizations in this space.

Responsibilities:

• Lead American Progress’ work to advance voting rights, which includes responding to voter suppression, sabotage, and mid-decade redistricting efforts, and promoting pro-voter and electoral system reforms.
• Work across the organization to manage American Progress’ security work as it relates to voting infrastructure, including voting machines, post-election audits, and voter registration databases.
• Develop a policy research, advocacy, and communications agenda, and actively participate in connecting the team’s work with American Progress’ cross-cutting priorities.
• Conceive of, design, research, write, and manage the distribution of a variety of written products, including reports, issue briefs, columns, and op-eds, that advance American Progress’ voting rights priorities and translate research findings for a broader audience.
• Identify opportunities to craft timely policy reports and rapid-response documents to ensure relevant participation in policy debates.
• Analyze federal and state legislative proposals, administrative policies, and regulatory changes.
• Design and conduct quantitative and qualitative research, including managing staff contributions.
• Represent American Progress with the public, media, policymakers, and other outside groups and individuals.
• Build and maintain key relationships across the democracy field, including with allied organizations and policymakers.
• Promote team priorities and work on products both inside and outside the organization.
• Keep American Progress staff updated on news and events related to relevant policy debates.
• Support American Progress’ cross-cutting work through the Structural Reform and Governance department work plans.
• Manage and support Democracy team staff as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements and qualifications:

• At least 7–10 years of relevant professional experience.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience; an advanced degree is a plus.
• Knowledge and experiential expertise, as well as a proven track record working on democracy issues, is required.
• Knowledge of federal policymaking and experience working with Congress and federal agencies.
• Established relationships with policymakers, advocates, stakeholders, and community leaders within Washington, D.C., and in the states are a plus.
• Excellent presentation and written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills; quantitative skills are a plus.
• Deep knowledge of election law and policy issues.
• Proven team player who works well and effectively with colleagues.
• Exceptional political instincts and experience working with coalitions.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to American Progress’ mission and goals.

American Progress provides a competitive compensation and benefits package. This position is not represented by a union. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.