Director, Washington State Institute for Public Policy

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or status as a protected veteran. For more information regarding Evergreen's non-discrimination policies or to report discrimination, please visit the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity webpage at www.evergreen.edu/equalopportunity or contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Officer at (360) 867-5371, Room 3102 Library Building, 2700 Evergreen Parkway NW, Olympia, WA 98505.

• 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.

• Effective organizational leadership skills, including mentoring senior staff and fostering an inclusive, high-performing workplace culture.
• Demonstrated ability to secure, manage, and sustain funding to support and advance WSIPP's mission.
• Proven ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with legislators, stakeholders, and partner organizations.
• Deep understanding of social science and public policy research and its relevance to legislative decision-making.
• Capacity to adapt to evolving research methods, tools, and interdisciplinary approaches.
• Demonstrated commitment to modeling and upholding standards of nonpartisanship.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively translate WSIPP's work for diverse audiences.

• 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.

• At least 10 years of experience in an executive leadership role, with experience overseeing staff, budgets, and organizational operations.
• At least 10 years of experience managing multidisciplinary teams or research programs.
• Demonstrated success in establishing collaborative relationships with Boards, policymakers, and external partners.
• Experience conducting research in a social science context.
• Strong commitment to research integrity, transparency, and the effective use of evidence in policy development.
• Familiarity with Washington State government, legislative processes, and interagency collaboration.
• Experience working in a nonpartisan setting.
• Proven experience representing an organization to senior officials and partner entities.
• Experience in establishing and executing strategic plans and guiding organizational direction.
• Experience working with government, legislative bodies, or public sector entities.

• Must provide proof of identity and employment eligibility within three days of beginning work.
• Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.