Description
Appleseed, a nonprofit network of 17 public interest justice centers in the United States and Mexico, seeks a new President. Appleseed is dedicated to building a society in which opportunities are genuine, access to the law is universal and equal, and government advances the public interest. Appleseed uncovers and corrects injustices and barriers to opportunity through legal, legislative and market-based structural reform. Appleseed believes that all people should be treated with fairness and justice and works to provide genuine opportunity for all–through excellent public education, access to public and private institutions on fair terms, and diverse, healthy neighborhoods.
The President of Appleseed will be the primary advocate of the Appleseed network for purposes of fundraising, branding, marketing, goal setting and recognizing opportunities to grow through partners or new centers around the country. The national staff, under the leadership of the President, supports and enhances the work of the network and elevates state-based work to a national level. The President will report to the Board of Directors, but will work in a collaborative team environment with the network leadership and local Appleseed executive directors.
The Appleseed Board of Directors is seeking a dynamic President with strong leadership and fundraising skills, a collaborative style and a vision for future growth of the organization.
Responsibilities include:
● Develop and manage a professional staff to achieve the goals of the organization.
● Develop strategic partnerships with national organizations that enhance the work of the organization.
● Collaborate with local Appleseed center executive directors to identify state based work to be elevated to a national scale.
● Work in conjunction with local Appleseed center executive directors to identify and develop multi-state collaborative projects.
● Assist local Appleseed centers with federal level advocacy, including lobbying Congress and working with federal agencies.
● Help strengthen the network of local Appleseed centers by providing support for event planning, proposal writing, fundraising, and operational guidance.
● Develop relationships with and connect local Appleseed centers to law firms and corporations interested in providing pro bono services.
● Identify opportunities and carry out efforts to grow the network.
● Represent Appleseed in the media, in public presentations, in communications with other organizations, and with the community at large.
● Work with communications staff to connect local Appleseed centers with national media outlets when appropriate.
● Work with the national development staff to identify and develop relationships with foundations and individual donors interested in supporting the work of the organization, and annually secure funds to meet the needs of the organization.
● Work with an engaged board of directors to ensure oversight and enhance the work of the organization.
Qualifications include:
● Degree in law or public policy a plus, but not required.
● A self-starter with a strong work ethic and a passion for social justice.
● Someone who thrives in a highly collaborative and collegial environment, in which achievements are shared.
● At least 5-10 years of experience in management of a nonprofit advocacy organization and managing a professional staff.
● Proven ability to develop, maintain and leverage strategic relationships.
● A track record of successful fundraising from national foundations and individuals.
● Strong communications skills, including the ability to write clearly, communicate convincingly, and advocate effectively.
● A strong understanding or familiarity with pro bono work from lawyers or other areas of skilled services that would enhance the Appleseed network’s capabilities.
● Experience serving as a spokesperson for an organization.
● Experience managing or working with a network or affiliate structure is a plus.
● Experience with federal level policy advocacy is a plus.
● Experience starting or growing a nonprofit organization is a plus.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary is based on experience. Appleseed offers generous benefits including health, vision, dental, 401(k), paid sick days and paid vacation.
To Apply:
Send a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to settleson@verizon.net, subject line: Appleseed ED.
Appleseed is an equal opportunity employer; people of color and individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Appleseed does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic background, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, or handicap.