The Data Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that champions the use of open data and evidence-informed public policy to make society better for everyone. As a nonpartisan think tank, we conduct research, collaborative thought leadership, and advocacy programs that advance practical policies for the creation and use of accessible, trustworthy data. Our activities proactively address emerging data-related needs in the country with the goal of devising realistic solutions, accelerating policy coordination, and advancing innovation. The Data Foundation is recognized by Candid Guidestar with the Platinum Seal of Transparency and received 4-Stars from Charity Navigator. (LEI: 254900I43CTC59RFW495)

The Data Foundation has four core values that guide our work:

Transparency: We rely on facts and transparency to generate trust and credibility
Pragmatic action: We promote practical, timely solutions to data-related challenges -- our ethos is "See a problem, fix a problem"
Radical collaboration: We enthusiastically pursue opportunities to foster non-traditional collaboration with people and groups that hold divergent beliefs and points of view to jointly identify and solve problems
Diversity, equity, and inclusion: We seek to embrace and include diversity in all of its forms in our work, and our belief is that through the use of data and research, more equitable opportunities and outcomes will be achieved.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Center for Data Policy Director/Senior Director is a key leadership position at the Data Foundation responsible for leading and managing the organization's core programmatic center in accomplishing our vision and mission. This role encompasses strategic oversight of data policy initiatives, implementation of grant and contract activities, and collaboration with partners across government, industry, and academia.

The position offers growth opportunities at two levels:

Director Level: For candidates with 3-5 years of relevant experience seeking to build expertise in data policy leadership
Senior Director Level: For seasoned professionals with 5-8+ years of experience ready to drive strategic vision and mentor emerging talent. Exceptional part-time applicants may also be considered at this level.

The Director/Senior Director will have substantial influence on the future direction and strategic priorities of the Center for Data Policy, including project planning, policy formulation, and stakeholder engagement. Current priorities include data policy intersections with data sharing, data governance, data infrastructure, privacy, artificial intelligence, privacy technologies, and emerging data innovation areas. In 2025, the position will support existing projects and grants related to reducing improper payments, monitoring and planning for changes to the current data policy landscape, and responsible applications of AI.

This position requires leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex policy landscapes while coordinating effectively across the Data Foundation's initiatives and external partnerships. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong project management capabilities, deep understanding of federal data policy, and proven experience building relationships with diverse stakeholders, including members of our Data Coalition.

This supervisory position may be hybrid, is based in Washington, DC, and reports directly to the Data Foundation President & CEO. Periodic travel may be required. The Data Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Data Policy Leadership and Strategic Direction (50%)

Lead strategic development and implementation of initiatives advancing the Data Foundation's data policy mission
Work closely with the President & CEO and organizational leaders to identify, prioritize, and execute high-impact data policy activities
Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including policymakers, industry leaders (including our Data Coalition), academic institutions, and advocacy organizations
Monitor and respond strategically to policy developments that advance the Data Foundation's mission
Position the Center for Data Policy as a leading voice on data policy, and enable strategic integration across Data Foundation programs
Develop and maintain comprehensive Center for Data Policy strategic plans with regular updates and performance metrics

Senior Director Level Additional Responsibilities:

Drive long-term strategic vision for the Center and its role in national data policy conversations
Lead cross-organizational initiatives requiring senior-level coordination
Mentor and develop junior staff in policy analysis and strategic thinking
Represent the Data Foundation at high-level policy forums and stakeholder meetings

Collaboration and Knowledge Leadership (20%)

Support implementation of organizational priorities
Champion priority projects as determined by the Board of Directors and President
Lead planning and execution of knowledge dissemination activities, including events, publications, and stakeholder convenings
Coordinate with Data Foundation partners, funders, and stakeholders to support mission-critical initiatives
Facilitate roundtables, working groups, and collaborative policy development processes

Partnership Development and Strategic Growth (15%)

Strengthen Data Coalition partner relationships through strategic program integration
Support fundraising strategies in collaboration with External Affairs and executive leadership
Identify and pursue relevant funding opportunities in collaboration with the President, contributing to proposal development for Center initiatives
Contribute to organizational annual and strategic planning processes

Senior Director Level Additional Responsibilities:

Coordinate development activities for events, sponsored projects, and new partnership opportunities

Team Leadership and Management (15%)

Build and lead a high-performing policy team with capacity for independent research and analysis
Provide mentorship, professional development, and performance management for direct reports
Foster collaborative relationships across Data Foundation teams and initiatives
Support recruitment and retention strategies for policy talent

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

Director Level Requirements:

3-5 years of experience in policy analysis, project management, and strategic planning
Strong foundational knowledge of relevant data laws and policies, including the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act and Privacy Act, as well as the annual federal appropriations process
Familiarity with federal data policy and AI landscape
Understanding of transparency and privacy policy balance for applications to data
Demonstrated project management and organizational capabilities

Senior Director Level Requirements:

5-8+ years of progressive experience in policy leadership, strategic planning, and team management
Extensive expertise in data and AI laws, policies, and federal regulatory frameworks
Proven track record of leading complex, multi-stakeholder policy initiatives
Experience mentoring and developing policy professionals
Strategic vision for data policy trends and organizational positioning

Shared Competencies:

Ability to manage multiple complex projects in collaborative and independent environments
Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, fast-paced organization
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, including public speaking and virtual presentation experience
Experience working effectively with diverse stakeholders across sectors
Strong analytical and research capabilities, including expertise in research methods
Demonstrated writing and communication skills for multiple audiences
Commitment to the Data Foundation's core values of transparency, pragmatic action, radical collaboration, and diversity

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Director Level:

Master's degree in public policy, law, public administration, or related field
3-5 years of relevant experience in nonprofit management, policy analysis, or government operations

Senior Director Level:

Master's degree in public policy, law, public administration, or related field
5-8+ years of progressive experience in policy leadership, nonprofit management, or senior government roles

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Location: Washington DC Preferred, Remote Eligible in US

Salary Range: Director Level: $80,000-$115,000; Senior Director Level: $115,000-$140,000; Final compensation based on experience and qualifications

Benefits Package:

Full healthcare insurance coverage through DC Health Link
HSA contribution of $100/month for qualifying plans
3% IRA match available immediately
Flexible PTO policy
Comprehensive holiday schedule including winter break
8 weeks paid parental leave after 12 months employment
Professional development funds
Performance-based bonus eligibility after 6 months
Internet stipend
$200 annual virtual equipment reimbursement

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested candidates should submit:

Self-written cover letter explaining interest and relevant experience for desired level (Director or Senior Director)
Current resume/CV
Self-produced writing sample demonstrating policy analysis capabilities (must not be written by generative AI)
References not required for initial application; three professional references will be requested if you are invited to interview

Direct applications to careers@datafoundation.org. Please specify your preferred level (Director or Senior Director) in your cover letter and email subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning June 4, 2025 until the position is filled.

This position was originally posted by the Data Foundation and has been curated by PurposePhil Career. To apply, please visit the original listing on the "apply" link below. We are not affiliated with the employer organization of this job ad or consultancy, and provide this curated listing as a service to our users.

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Director or Senior Director, Center for Data Policy