Democracy Security Project (DSP) is seeking State Directors in multiple states to serve as strategic leaders and relationship builders who will advance DSP’s mission of protecting elected officials, non-profit leaders, staff, organizers, volunteers and other critical players in the democratic process at the state and local level.
The State Director will build a robust network focused on election safety and security.
They will develop and manage critical relationships with key stakeholders across the democratic ecosystem, like election administrators, public officials, staff, civic organizations, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders, to ensure coordinated responses to security threats and to build sustainable infrastructure for protecting democratic participation. The State Director will work closely with the DSP national team to respond to needs in the state with safety and security recommendations and solutions, including training, direct support and referrals for security experts.
This is a contract position offering flexibility while requiring consistent engagement with state-level partners and accountability to the national DSP team.
The ideal candidate will have deep relationships within their state's political and civic landscape, exceptional strategic thinking abilities, strong stakeholder management skills, and a demonstrated commitment to protecting voting rights and democratic institutions. This role requires someone who can build trust across diverse constituencies, think proactively about emerging threats, and coordinate complex, multi-stakeholder efforts.
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Relationship Building:
Build, develop, and manage relationships with key stakeholders including election officials, campaign leadership, civic organizations, law enforcement, and elected officials
Identify existing safety and security networks in state to cultivate and build new partnerships that advance DSP's mission
Coordinate with DSP state directors in other states and national team members to share best practices and ensure strategic alignment
Foster an environment of trust, information-sharing, and coordinated action among diverse partners
Intake & Response Coordination:
Develop and execute outreach strategies to stakeholders who may need security support
Monitor and respond to incoming safety and security inquiries from partners and stakeholders
Advise senior leadership on intake priorities and recommend implementation strategies
Serve as a trusted advisor to partners navigating security concerns
Identify resources in the state that can can respond quickly and effectively to emerging threats
Safety & Security Strategy & Planning:
Work with partners to assess vulnerabilities and develop proactive security strategies with the support of the national DSP team and its network of safety and security partners.
Connect stakeholders with appropriate resources, expertise, and support
Help partners develop emergency action plans and safety and security protocols appropriate to their needs
Training Support:
Coordination and Reporting:
Qualifications
5+ years of political, campaign, election administration, advocacy, or civic engagement experience, with demonstrated success in relationship building and stakeholder management
Deep knowledge of and relationships within the state's civic and political landscape, including elected officials, campaigns, election administration, civic organizations, and/or law enforcement
Proven ability to build trust and credibility with diverse stakeholders, including across partisan and institutional lines where appropriate
Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and develop proactive solutions
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a track record of forging strong, collaborative relationships
Demonstrated commitment to protecting voting rights and democratic participation
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality
Strong judgment in assessing priorities and making strategic recommendations
Ability to work independently while remaining closely coordinated with and accountable to a national team
Resilience and flexibility in responding to rapidly changing circumstances
Willingness to work flexible hours as needed, including evenings and weekends during peak periods, and to travel within the state regularly
Training or facilitation experience with demonstrated ability to engage diverse audiences is preferred but not required