OpenSky seeks policy director

We are seeking a Policy Director to lead the analytical work that serves as the backbone of OpenSky Policy Institute’s policy research and advocacy efforts with enthusiasm, integrity, and tenacity. The ideal candidate will have expertise in public policy, strong quantitative and leadership skills, possess the ability to learn new issues rapidly, and be able to communicate technical information effectively to diverse audiences.

About Us

OpenSky is a nonpartisan think tank that provides independent research and analysis of state fiscal and economic policy issues in Nebraska, with a focus on how these issues affect people across the state. Our mission is to use policy research and analysis to advance the well-being of Nebraskans. We embrace an “all hands on deck” work environment where collaboration is not just encouraged, but critical to success.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Experience in working with a legislative body
  • An advanced degree in public policy, educational research or a related field

To be successful in this job, you will excel in three key areas:

  • Policy analysis and strategic-thinking
  • Management savvy and creative instincts
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills

Key responsibilities:

  • Relentlessly lead the charge of producing public policy analysis

o   Own OpenSky’s education portfolio, including research projects, blog posts, and other work products, as needed

o   Seek every opportunity for OpenSky to inform and enhance policy discussions in Nebraska

o   Recruit and retain an all-star team of analysts and manage that team for maximum results

o   Coordinate with the Executive Director and Communications Director to continuously improve the reach and impact of OpenSky’s research

  • Strengthen and protect OpenSky’s reputation as the go-to source of credible, independent information on Nebraska’s economy, the state budget, and policies that promote economic opportunity for Nebraskans

o   Ensure accuracy in all OpenSky work products and presentations

o   Cultivate relationships with policymakers, partners and other stakeholders

o   Maintain fluency in all of OpenSky’s policy issues and serve as a spokesperson for OpenSky for media, stakeholders and the community at large

o   Continuously monitor the policy environment, lead legislative tracking, and engage directly with the legislature

  • Envision, as part of the OpenSky Leadership Team, a Nebraska economy where opportunity is widely shared

o   Craft strategies for making OpenSky’s vision for Nebraska’s future a reality with the Executive Director,  Communications Director, and Board of Directors

o   Actively support OpenSky’s development efforts and outreach goals

REPORTS TO: Executive Director

BASED IN: Lincoln, NE

TRAVEL: Occasional travel is required.

SALARY and BENEFITS: Salary is commensurate with experience, education, and ability.  OpenSky also provides generous benefits including health care, vacation, and a 401K plan.

 

TO APPLY:  Send cover letter, resume, and recent salary history to: Toni Roberts, (troberts@openskypolicy.org) with a subject line of: “Policy Director Position.”  No phone calls or other email inquiries please.

OpenSky Policy Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  We are an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.