Executive Director — Wisconsin Appleseed Center for Law & Justice

The Wisconsin Appleseed Center for Law & Justice is a nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated ambitious systemic policy change. We believe every Wisconsinite deserves genuine opportunities to thrive and fair treatment under the law. We prioritize the voices and leadership of those most impacted by systemic inequities, ensuring our work is shaped by community wisdom and rooted in grassroots solutions.

Wisconsin Appleseed is a member of the Appleseed Network, a collaboration of 20 justice centers across the United States and Mexico working together to reduce poverty, combat discrimination, and advance the rule of law. More information is available at www.WisconsinAppleseed.org

The Opportunity

The Wisconsin Appleseed Board of Directors seeks a dynamic and committed individual to serve as the organization's next Executive Director.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a strong foundation and drive transformational growth. With a launched website, secured initial funding, established policy priorities, and strong partnerships already in place, you'll build on the momentum created by our founding leadership team to expand our impact across Wisconsin.

Location: Remote anywhere within Wisconsin, with travel to Madison and Milwaukee for meetings with board members, legislators, donors, and coalition partners.

What You'll Do

The Wisconsin Appleseed Executive Director will have significant support from the Appleseed Foundation (network office), Nebraska Appleseed (fiscal sponsor), and the broader Appleseed Network of justice centers.

Policy Advocacy

Advance systemic advocacy campaigns that target root causes of inequality across economic justice, racial justice, criminal justice reform, childhood, immigration, and access to justice

• Oversee implementation of advocacy strategies including research, coalition development, community engagement, and legislative advocacy
• Amplify the voices and leadership of those most impacted by systemic inequities
• Build and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, ensuring our work is grounded in grassroots solutions

Organizational Development

• Lead continued infrastructure development, including financial systems, communications, and operational capacity
• Represent Wisconsin Appleseed to partners, media, and the public
• Ensure organizational systems support sustainable growth and impact

Fundraising (Approximately 40%)

• Build on initial funder relationships to develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy
• Grow the organization's grant and donor base through foundation grants and individual giving
• Cultivate strong relationships with donors and program officers to ensure long-term financial sustainability

Required Qualifications:

• At least 5 years of experience in nonprofit, public policy, government, or legal organizations
• Demonstrated expertise in legislative advocacy, community engagement, coalition building, and policy research
• Proven success in nonprofit fundraising, including foundation grants and individual donors
• Experience in nonprofit operations and management
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Deep commitment to systemic justice and advancing equity in Wisconsin

Preferred:

• Graduate degree in law or public policy

Essential Qualities:

Strong work ethic committed to addressing the root causes of inequality

Strategic thinker able to set goals, develop adaptable plans, and follow through

Collaborative in building coalitions and partnerships

Effective communicator inspiring action and investment in our mission

• Entrepreneurial spirit with the ability to drive growth

To Apply

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Submit your resume and cover letter to: manager1@wiappleseed.org

Subject line: Wisconsin Appleseed Executive Director

In your cover letter, please share:

• Your vision for advancing systemic justice in Wisconsin
• Examples of how you've centered community voices in your advocacy work
• Your approach to building sustainable funding for mission-driven organizations

Wisconsin Appleseed is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications

Benefits: Health and retirement benefits; generous PTO and paid health leave; remote work stipend

Start Date: June 2026

Time Commitment: Full-time