JOB: Executive Director, ProgressNow-Missouri

Executive Director, ProgressNow Missouri

Position Description
The Executive Director is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization. The ED will develop and execute a communications plan and strategy to support the goals of strengthening the progressive movement in the states and securing advancements in progressive public policy.  ProgressNow is committed to building an innovative and integrated coalition that advances progressive values and workable public policy ideas and solutions to create opportunities rather than burdens for future generations.

Responsibilities
• Manage start-up and day to day operations of new organization. The ED will direct all aspects of the organization including management of staff, policy, research, message development, media relations, communications, fundraising and board development
• Work with coalition partners including America Votes http://www.americavotes.org/site/state/missouri/  to develop and promote progressive issue messages
• Direct the interpretation of information so that the organization may serve as a clearinghouse and “watchdog”.
• Create and implement trainings as needed
• Identify and capitalize on opportunities for progressive messaging
• Manage organizational budget, compliance and audit
• Disseminate key institutional deliverables – such as policy briefs, expert guides, and annual reports-to appropriate media outlets.
• Plan and execute organization fundraisers. Develop and maintain relationship with funders.
• Serve as the organizations primary spokes person; delegate responsibility when appropriate
• Initiate and support earned media opportunities for the progressive community
• Perform other duties as assigned


Qualifications
• Proven experience in working collaboratively with organizations to advance progressive public policy and communications.
• Commitment to progressive organizations and causes
• Familiarity with the state’s main stream media outlets and progressive community stakeholders required, familiarity with new and emerging media preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience writing press releases and blog postings
• Experience with polling, research and message development preferred
• Basic computer and technology skills required
• Innovative problem solver
• Self-started with proven ability to work independently and in teams
• Earned media experience required
• Willingness to work long and irregular hours
• Commitment to building long term and sustainable progressive infrastructure in the state
• Ability to perform difficult tasks in a high stress, fast pace environment
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously

The position reports the Board of Directors.

The mission of ProgressNow is to provide a strong, credible voice in advancing progressive solutions to critical community problems. But we don’t do that on our own – we work as a communications team for the entire progressive community. We’re a marketing department for progressive ideas – a campaign that never stops. We work year round to challenge conservative propaganda in the media and make sure that progressive perspectives are heard.

The ProgressNow state affiliates are part of a multi-issue progressive advocacy organization that combines cutting edge online organizing and communications with rapid and hard-hitting earned media strategies. Year round, ProgressNow will work to engage citizens from across the state around issues of immediate state or local concern.

ProgressNow’s goals are to:
• Build a stronger progressive movement in the state. We will use innovative, internet-based organizing and communications strategies and tactics to dramatically expand active public support for progressive issues and policies.
• Secure major advances in progressive public policy. Working with other progressive groups, we will use the power of real people to encourage bold policy changes.

Compensation: Salary is commensurate with experience.

To apply, please email a copy of your resume, a cover letter, writing sample and three references to: michael@progressnow.org

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

ProgressNow is an equal opportunity employer.