Hiring Organization Information
Position Information
ABOUT THE WASHINGTON STATE BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER:
The Washington State Budget and Policy Center works to advance economic justice for all Washingtonians. Their mission is to use research and analysis to advance the well-being of Washington communities, improve the economic security and social opportunity of all in the state, and support the essential role of government in promoting a just and prosperous society.
Visit https://budgetandpolicy.org/ to learn about how they keep equity at the forefront of their work and about their framework for advancing progressive fiscal policies.
WASHINGTON STATE BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER’S THEORY OF CHANGE:
The Washington State Budget and Policy Center’s theory of change starts with a foundation reflecting their internal commitments and principles that outline how the Washington State Budget and Policy Center approaches their policy work. The Washington State Budget and Policy Center focuses on three strategies – research and policy analysis, partnerships, and narrative building. They are guiding and measuring their work based on how it builds toward the medium-term impacts they hope to see: grassroots partnership gaining more collective power through campaign and policy wins; community advocates holding state leaders accountable; Washington state raising progressive sustainable revenue to equitable fund programs and services; and tribal governments having resources to fund and invest in programs and services in their communities.
The vision the Washington State Budget and Policy Center is building towards is one where every community is thriving with all people able to enjoy a bright economic future, health, freedom, and joy.
To Learn more about the Theory of Change, please visit: https://budgetandpolicy.org/our-theory-of-change/
OVERVIEW OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ROLE:
As the face of the Budget and Policy Center (B&PC), the Executive Director (ED) embodies their mission and values, providing visionary leadership to advance their goals of racial and economic justice. The ED will drive strategic direction, manage organizational operations, and foster strong relationships with key partners, including tribal governments, legislative bodies, and community members. This role is pivotal in bridging gaps across Washington state, ensuring their work resonates with all communities and leverages their collective power for systemic change.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:
Vision and Strategic Leadership:
- Lead B&PC in aligning work with their mission, strategic plan, and theory of change.
- Develop and refine strategic priorities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
- Cultivate relationships with policymakers, tribal leaders, and key partners to advance their agenda.
- Foster a culture of innovation and creativity, encouraging new ideas and methods to achieve their objectives.
External Partnerships:
- Act as the primary spokesperson, enhancing B&PC’s public profile and effectively communicating their research and policy analysis.
- Build and manage relationships with funders, media, and community leaders to support their mission.
- Engage with the community to make their work tangible and relevant, connecting policy to real-world impacts.
Lead and Inspire a Strong Internal Team:
- Lead a high-performance team by supporting and empowering staff, fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment.
- Prioritize staff well-being and autonomy while promoting collective work and innovation.
- Embody and promote organizational principles, including a commitment to dismantling systemic racism and supporting long-term community empowerment.
Development and Financial Oversight:
- Ensure sound financial management and growth, focusing on revenue diversity and budget adherence.
- Partner with development staff to secure and cultivate donor relationships.
- Oversee financial controls, compliance, and sustainability efforts, including fundraising and managing expenditures.
Organizational Engagement:
- Contribute to organizational culture and support B&PC’s anti-racist commitments.
- Collaborate with the Board of Directors to enhance organizational effectiveness and strategic alignment.
- Engage in ongoing dialogue about board composition and mission alignment, ensuring diversity and inclusivity.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Advanced degree in economics, public policy, law, or related field preferred.
- Minimum of five years in public policy advocacy or analysis, with experience in state politics and legislative processes.
- Proven management experience in a nonprofit setting, with a strong track record in fundraising and financial stewardship.
- Understanding of geographical, economical, and cultural diversity in policy impacts.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and navigate complex relationships.
- Commitment to racial equity and DEI, with the ability to facilitate meaningful conversations and address systemic issues effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to inspire and lead a diverse team, adapt to changing environments, and drive organizational success.
Additional Information:
This position is supervised by the Board of Directors and includes oversight of key staff and vendors. The ED will work closely with the board and leadership team to ensure alignment with B&PC’s goals and values. This role requires a leader who is empathetic, flexible, and innovative, with a deep commitment to their mission and the communities the Washington State Budget and Policy Center serves.