President, Center for American Progress Action Fund; Counselor, Center for American Progress

Reports to: President and CEO, Center for American Progress
Department: Executive
Position classification: Exempt, full time
Compensation range: $220,000 – $260,000 per annum
Work site: On-site (Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

The Center for American Progress Action Fund, the advocacy arm of American Progress, is a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to advancing progressive values and driving political change. The Action Fund works to promote bold progressive policies through direct advocacy, campaigns, and communications designed to influence public opinion and policy decisions.

The President of the Center for American Progress Action Fund will be responsible for leading and managing all aspects of the Action Fund’s work. This includes setting and executing strategic priorities; overseeing advocacy campaigns, digital strategy, research, and government affairs; and building relationships with policymakers, partners, and funders. The President will serve as the principal leader of the Action Fund, guiding its programmatic, fundraising, and organizational goals while aligning with the broader mission of American Progress.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily operations of the organization, providing executive direction for program strategies and efficiencies, compliance, and quality assurance.
• Set and drive the strategic direction for the Center for American Progress Action Fund in alignment with its advocacy mission and the broader goals of American Progress.
• Develop and execute communications strategies to elevate progressive policy ideas and break through today’s crowded media and political environment.
• Oversee all components of the Action Fund, including advocacy campaigns, government affairs, digital communications, and strategic research.
• Lead fundraising efforts for the Action Fund and cultivate strong relationships with major donors, institutional funders, and partners.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with elected officials, advocacy partners, coalition allies, and other external stakeholders.
• Supervise and support senior leadership in executing policy advocacy, issue campaigns, and public engagement strategies.
• Represent American Progress in media appearances and public events.
• Ensure coordination among the policy, communications, and advocacy divisions.
• Provide executive oversight of staff, operations, and budgeting across teams within the Action Fund.
• Serve on American Progress’ Executive Committee and contribute to organization-wide leadership, strategy, and planning.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
   

Requirements and qualifications:

• Minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience in advocacy, political, nonprofit, or government settings. Communications and leadership experience is a must.
• Proven experience successfully leading complex advocacy or political organizations, including setting strategy, managing high-performing teams, and achieving measurable impact.
• Demonstrated success in building and maintaining relationships with high-level stakeholders, including elected officials, advocacy organizations, and funders.
• Strong track record of fundraising.
• Experience managing budgets.
• Deep understanding of the political and media landscape and how to leverage communications to advance progressive policies.
• Experience overseeing cross-functional teams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
• Commitment to progressive values and the mission of American Progress.

American Progress offers a full and competitive benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is not represented by a union and has a salary range of $220,000–$260,000 per annum. Final salary may be above the posted range commensurate with experience.