Senior Director of Research and Policy

Position: Senior Director of Research and Policy
Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)
Salary Range: $130,000 – $160,000

Senior Director of Research and Policy 

Position Overview The Senior Director of Research and Policy is a key leadership role within the Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO), responsible for guiding and executing AEO’s research agenda and policy initiatives. This role requires a dynamic leader with a strong background in research, policy analysis, management, fundraising, communications, and strategic partnership development. The Senior Director will play a pivotal role in advancing AEO’s mission by producing high-impact research, advocating for policies that support microbusinesses and underserved entrepreneurs, and cultivating relationships with stakeholders, including funders, policymakers, and coalition partners. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Research Management: 

  • Develop and oversee AEO’s research agenda, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and the needs of microbusinesses and underserved entrepreneurs. 
  • Lead the design, execution, and dissemination of research projects, ensuring methodological rigor and relevance to AEO’s mission. 
  • Manage a team of researchers and analysts, providing mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities.

2. Policy Development and Advocacy: 

  • Identify, analyze, and advocate for policies that support microbusinesses and underserved entrepreneurs. 
  • Develop policy positions, briefs, and reports to influence federal, state, and local policymakers. 
  • Represent AEO in policy discussions, coalitions, and advocacy events. 

3. Fundraising and Resource Development: 

  • Lead fundraising efforts to support AEO’s research and policy initiatives, including grant writing, proposal development, and donor cultivation. 
  • Identify new funding opportunities and build relationships with foundations, corporations, and individual donors. 
  • Collaborate with the Development team to integrate research and policy priorities into overall fundraising strategies. 

4. Communications and Public Engagement: 

  • Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy to promote AEO’s research and policy work. 
  • Serve as a spokesperson for AEO’s research and policy initiatives, presenting findings to diverse audiences including media, funders, and the public. 
  • Produce high-quality written materials, including reports, op-eds, blog posts, and social media content. 

5. Partnerships and Coalitions: 

  • Build and maintain strategic partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations, think tanks, and advocacy groups. 
  • Lead coalition-building efforts to advance shared policy goals and amplify AEO’s impact. 
  • Collaborate with external partners to co-create research projects and policy initiatives. 

6. Strategic Leadership and Organizational Development: 

  • Contribute to the overall strategic direction of AEO as a member of the senior leadership team. 
  • Provide thought leadership on emerging trends and issues affecting microbusinesses and underserved entrepreneurs. 
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the Research and Policy team. 

Qualifications 

  • Advanced degree in public policy, economics, business, or a related field. 
  • Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in research, policy analysis, and advocacy, preferably within the nonprofit sector. 
  • Proven track record of successful fundraising and resource development. 
  • Strong leadership and management skills, with experience leading diverse teams. 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex research findings into actionable policy recommendations. 
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strategic partnerships and coalitions. 
  • Commitment to AEO’s mission and values, with a deep understanding of the challenges facing microbusinesses and underserved entrepreneurs. 

Application Process 

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

AEO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.