About Power to the Polls: Power to the Polls is a Wisconsin-based Black-led 501c4 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
Power to the Polls recognizes that the next Executive Director could bring various experiences to the role; we are seeking candidates with a compelling leadership background who will bring a majority of the following:
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 501c4, 501c3, 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
Compensation:$108,000 - $120,000 plus generous benefits package including health care and 401k match.
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.