This individual 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. The Associate Director/Director will be part of a dynamic department that supports work across American Progress’ five crosscutting priorities:

• Building an economy for all
• Restoring social trust in democracy
• Advancing racial equity and justice
• Tackling climate change and environmental injustice
• Strengthening health

Responsibilities:

• Lead in identifying and establishing American Progress’ organizational priorities for building clean energy infrastructure and transmission in a way that centers environmental justice communities as well as biodiversity and conservation values.
• Work within the Energy and Environment department and the Conservation Policy team, as well as with key stakeholders and allies, to develop and implement legislative and political strategies with a primary focus on federal action.
• Leverage American Progress’ research and policy capabilities to drive a narrative and serve as a resource to partners and the public.
• Develop and design policy and product ideas that support the team’s goals and manage research, writing, timelines, and outreach as needed.
• Manage projects, research, and policy staff as needed, while supporting an inclusive, supportive, and creative workplace culture.
• Lead and support the development of a range of written products, including memos, reports, rapid-response statements, op-eds, and social media, to influence the policy debate on key climate issues.
• Represent American Progress in the media and in external meetings with Capitol Hill staff and coalition partners to advance the organization’s work.
• Fundraise to support the Conservation Policy team and to create new initiatives.
• Continue efforts to expand and broaden the conservation community to include a diverse and inclusive group of stakeholders working on relevant issues.
• Develop and maintain expertise in assigned areas of responsibility.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements and qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience. An advanced degree in a relevant discipline is a plus.
• At least six years of relevant professional experience for the Associate Director role, and at least seven to 10 years of relevant professional experience for the Director role. This may include experience in organizing, campaigns, legislative and administrative advocacy, coalition building, relevant graduate studies, or work in related fields.
• Proven knowledge of ocean, land, climate, and/or energy policy issues.
• Ability to drive long-term strategy both inside and outside American Progress.
• Experience working with coalitions; the ideal candidate will have a breadth of existing relationships in environmental organizations.
• Experience managing projects from start to finish, including managing the work of staff who may or may not be direct reports.
• Experience in seeking funding or grant writing is a plus.
• Understanding of how environmental issues intersect with racism and economic and social inequality, and a passion for working to dismantle these systems.
• Adept written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to independently plan ahead, prioritize, allocate time, balance projects, and coordinate with internal and external partners.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines in a team setting.
• Understanding and willingness to learn about how power, privilege, and oppression manifest at the individual, interpersonal, and structural levels.
• Commitment to American Progress’ mission, goals, and progressive values, including environmental and social justice; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and the creation of a positive workplace culture.
• Direct supervisory management experience is required for the Director position.

American Progress offers a full and competitive benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is not represented by a union. The Associate Director position has a minimum salary of $77,000, and the Director position has a minimum salary of $92,000.

American Progress’ hybrid work policy is posted on our Jobs page. Please visit this page for updates. Any changes to this policy will also be communicated at the time of hire.