AEO (Association for Enterprise Opportunity) · 2 months ago
Senior Director of Research and Policy
Washington, DC
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$130K/yr - $160K/yr
7+ years expThe Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) is seeking a Senior Director of Research and Policy to lead its research agenda and policy initiatives. This role involves managing research projects, advocating for policies that support microbusinesses, and building relationships with stakeholders to advance AEO's mission.
AssociationCommunitiesCrowdfunding
Responsibilities
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
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
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
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
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
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
Qualification
Required
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
Company
AEO (Association for Enterprise Opportunity)
AEO is the leading national organization and voice for entrepreneurship and small business development in the United States.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Connie Evans
President & CEO
Brian AM Williams
VP, Chief Technology Officer, Department of Data and Analytics
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