Executive Director

About Power to the Polls Power to the Polls is a Wisconsin‑based Black‑led 501(c)(4) organization created by civil rights leaders, faith leaders, labor unions, and activists across the state. Our goal is to fundamentally change the way we organize and mobilize Black, Brown, and working‑class communities in Wisconsin, remove barriers to the ballot box, and give power back to people who are all too often left behind. The Opportunity Power to the Polls is seeking a visionary, collaborative, and mission‑driven Executive Director to lead it through its next chapter. The Executive Director will serve as the organization’s strategic leader, responsible for advancing Power to the Polls’ mission, strengthening partnerships, and overseeing operations. This role requires a strong commitment to democracy, equity, civic engagement, and community‑centered leadership. Key Responsibilities Leadership Oversee all day‑to‑day operations, programs, staffing, and administration of Power to the Polls and its affiliated organizations. Lead the development and execution of the organization’s strategic vision and long‑term goals. Collaborate with the Board of Directors to establish priorities, policies, and organizational direction. Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the organization. Identify emerging opportunities, partnerships, and initiatives that advance organizational impact. Fundraising and Development Responsible for Power to the Polls’ fundraising efforts with major donors and other funding sources. Identify fundraising opportunities aligned with organizational strategy and successfully secure contributions. Cultivate relationships with potential new funding sources and deepen relationships with existing funders. Inspire confidence in Power to the Polls’ work to create and sustain a network of committed, engaged supporters. Budget Oversight Manage budget and oversee financial planning, compliance, and operations to ensure fiscal health and accountability. Lead the development of the annual budget and ensure that it aligns with the organization’s goals and priorities. Monitor financial performance on an ongoing basis. Provide reports and regular updates to the Board of Directors on the financial health of the organization. Program Oversight Provide oversight and strategic direction for all outreach and organizing programs, including managing large scale door‑to‑door outreach efforts across multiple communities. Ensure programs are data‑informed, mission‑aligned, and community‑centered. Evaluate program effectiveness and implement continuous improvements. Support innovative approaches to volunteer recruitment, voter mobilization, and civic participation. Qualifications A passion for Power to the Polls’ mission and values and a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. At least 5+ years of work experience in progressive advocacy, campaigns, or politics. A proven track record of successfully leading robust programs, campaigns, or organizations, including setting, prioritizing, and achieving impactful strategies and goals. Expertise developing and leading electoral and advocacy strategies for progressive organizations or campaigns. Exceptional fundraising skills and the ability to build relationships, attract new sources of revenue, and bolster an organization’s financial sustainability. Creativity, nimbleness, and the ability to understand the opportunities and challenges of working in shifting, complex political environments. Excellent people‑management skills with a talent for empowering and supporting staff. Strong communications skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to inspire and motivate. Outstanding interpersonal skills with an impressive history of forging authentic relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders and experience working in coalitions. Budget management experience, including managing a 501(c)(4), 501(c)(3), or state and federal PACs is a strong plus. Ability to develop and collaborate with the Board of Directors. Must be located or willing to relocate to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Ability and willingness to work long and irregular hours at certain times of the year corresponding with major initiatives and campaigns. Must have access to reliable transportation. Some statewide and national travel will be required. Power to the Polls is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. All interested individuals are encouraged to apply, particularly people of color, women, and persons who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and/or intersex. #J-18808-Ljbffr