Rhode Island Working Families is a newly formed progressive independent political organization that will fight for economic, social, and racial justice — and win. Formed by labor unions, community organizations and grassroots activists, our aim is to win policy shifts that ensure dignity and justice for working class communities, communities of color and all Rhode Islanders.
Job Scope:
Working Families seeks a passionate and effective leader to launch and direct a progressive political organization that builds power for working class, middle class, and poor families in Rhode Island. Working closely with leaders of labor, community, and other progressive organizations, the State Director oversees all campaigning activities and the growth and development of the organization. The ideal candidate will be someone able to lead ambitious and innovative campaigns; navigate complex political relationships; build and implement a plan of action together with diverse constituencies and inspire support and collaboration from staff, partners, donors, and other stakeholders.
Job Duties:
· Set the comprehensive organizational priorities for the state and execute effective strategies and tactics to advance the mission of Rhode Island Working Families;
· Develop and staff a local board of key institutional partners to guide the organization’s campaign priorities;
· Identify and prioritize campaign opportunities within the state and leverage resources to secure victories at the local and state level;
· Build a political network: expand coalitions with local and state progressive organizations, identify and mobilize concerned citizens, and reach out to new constituencies to expand the organization’s base of support;
· Cultivate external relationships with political decision-makers, coalition partners, donors, and other stakeholders;
· Generate media attention and build public awareness of Working Families initiatives and campaigns;
· Direct fundraising efforts: design and implement a fundraising plan;
· Develop and adhere to a statewide budget;
· Hire, supervise, and train staff, interns and volunteers.
Required education, experience, knowledge, and skills:
· A minimum of five or more years of relevant professional experience, including in leadership positions. Relevant experience includes (but is not limited to) working in political, union, community, and/or government settings.
· Strong demonstrated leadership ability;
· Excellent analytical skills and sound judgment;
· Strong verbal and written skills; the ability to communicate persuasively in a charged atmosphere;
· Must be a results-oriented self-starter able to work under pressure on several projects at one time;
· Leadership experience working in coalition with diverse constituencies;
· A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience;
· Unwavering commitment to social and economic justice;
· Demonstrated fundraising experience preferred;
· Demonstrated staff management experience preferred.
Reports to:
The State Director reports to the Executive Committee of Rhode Island Working Families.
To apply:
Send a cover letter, resume and two references to RIWFPStateDirectorSearch@gmail.com. RI Working Families will review candidates on an ongoing basis with the goal of a September 2015 start date.
The Working Families Party and the Working Families Organization are equal opportunity employers with a commitment to economic and social justice. Women, people of color, LGBTQ people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply.
