Director of Justice Programs

Alliance for Justice is a national association of over 100 organizations, representing a broad array of groups committed to progressive values and the creation of an equitable, just, and free society. AFJ works to ensure that the federal judiciary advances core constitutional values, preserves human rights and unfettered access to the courts, and adheres to the even-handed administration of justice for all Americans. It is the leading expert on the legal framework for nonprofit advocacy efforts, providing definitive information, resources, and technical assistance that encourages organizations and their funding partners to fully exercise their right to be active participants in the democratic process.

 

AFJ is seeking a Director of Justice Programs.  The Director of Justice Programs is a senior staff member who will be responsible for managing research and developing and implementing strategy around AFJ's justice policy initiatives.   The Director of Justice Programs reports to the executive vice president.

Responsibilities:

The Director of Justice Programs is expected to be a national authority on the broad range of legal policy issues handled by AFJ.  The person serving in this position will:

• Direct AFJ's programs related to justice including judicial selection, access to justice and accountability;
• Review and edit all substantive work of the justice programs including reports, editorials, and fact sheets.
• Speak at legal and policy conferences, serve as a media surrogate for AFJ's President, and brief academics, Congressional staff, Board of Directors, member organizations and other audiences.
• Represent AFJ to other organizations as part of coalitions on justice issues.
• Manage a staff of legal researchers and lobbyists.
• Participate in key meetings with Members of Congress and staff (Director's responsibilities will not require registering as lobbyist);
• Oversee the production of substantive materials for grassroots education, media, legal advisory committees and other audiences for AFJ justice programs and campaigns. 
• Secure funding for AFJ justice programs in cooperation with development and executive teams.
• Report on program priorities and accomplishments as needed. 
• Participate in senior staff meetings and decisions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• J.D. and a minimum of seven years of experience in legal policy or advocacy work;
• Exceptional analytical, writing and speaking skills;
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest and civil rights law;
• Hill experience desired;
• Ability to work quickly under pressure, with shifting deadlines and priorities;
• Some travel and long hours required;
• Ability to inspire, lead a team, work collegially with others; and
• Strong interpersonal skills and positive attitude.

Compensation:

Salary commensurate with experience.

Application:

AFJ is an equal opportunity employer.  Please click on the button below to submit a cover letter and resume online.  To apply by mail, send materials to Alliance for Justice, attention Director of Justice Programs Search, 11 Dupont Circle, NW, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC, 20036. 

 

If you have difficulty with the online application, materials may be submitted via email to alliance@afj.org. Please include the job title in the subject line of the email.