Director, Washington State Institute for Public Policy

The Evergreen State College Portal•Olympia, WA

About The Position

Essential Functions Develops and advances WSIPP’s strategic direction, organizational structure, and identity. The Director ensures that WSIPP remains a valuable and trusted resource for policymakers by directing, coordinating, and engaging in high-quality research. In collaboration with the Board, develops and maintains a stable funding stream for WSIPP , including funding from the Legislature and external entities. Works closely with the Board, organizing and convening Board meetings to seek guidance on projects, budgets, and overall direction. Oversees WSIPP’s research activities and maintains awareness of the policy research needs of the Washington State Legislature. The Director stays informed about applied research and policy studies conducted within the Legislature and state agencies. Establishes standards and channels for releasing WSIPP’s research, ensuring credibility and policy relevance. Oversees strategy for sharing WSIPP’s work through conferences, collaborations, and other venues. In collaboration with the Board, ensures that WSIPP’s research portfolio reflects legislative priorities and supports WSIPP’s mission. Leads with a collaborative approach, engaging staff in WSIPP’s development. Promotes long-term organizational health by guiding the management team, fostering a high-performing and inclusive culture, and making final decisions on personnel matters. Minimum Qualifications Master’s degree or Ph.D. in public policy, economics, political science/administration, or a related field from an accredited institution of higher education. At least 5 years of experience in an executive leadership role, with experience overseeing staff, budgets, and operations in organizations of similar or larger size. At least 5 years of experience providing research or other decision support to legislators or other policy makers.

Requirements

Master’s degree or Ph.D. in public policy, economics, political science/administration, or a related field from an accredited institution of higher education.
At least 5 years of experience in an executive leadership role, with experience overseeing staff, budgets, and operations in organizations of similar or larger size.
At least 5 years of experience providing research or other decision support to legislators or other policy makers.

Responsibilities

Develops and advances WSIPP’s strategic direction, organizational structure, and identity.
Ensures that WSIPP remains a valuable and trusted resource for policymakers by directing, coordinating, and engaging in high-quality research.
In collaboration with the Board, develops and maintains a stable funding stream for WSIPP , including funding from the Legislature and external entities.
Works closely with the Board, organizing and convening Board meetings to seek guidance on projects, budgets, and overall direction.
Oversees WSIPP’s research activities and maintains awareness of the policy research needs of the Washington State Legislature.
Stays informed about applied research and policy studies conducted within the Legislature and state agencies.
Establishes standards and channels for releasing WSIPP’s research, ensuring credibility and policy relevance.
Oversees strategy for sharing WSIPP’s work through conferences, collaborations, and other venues.
In collaboration with the Board, ensures that WSIPP’s research portfolio reflects legislative priorities and supports WSIPP’s mission.
Leads with a collaborative approach, engaging staff in WSIPP’s development.
Promotes long-term organizational health by guiding the management team, fostering a high-performing and inclusive culture, and making final decisions on personnel matters.