Programs Manager, Technology Reform

Position

The Programs Manager, Technology Reform at Issue One is dedicated to advancing transformative reforms for a more inclusive democracy, focusing on technology reform. Responsibilities may include policy and legislative analysis, independently and collaboratively developing and executing policy and legislative goals for federal or state legislation, coordinating congressional activities and leading executive branch advocacy. The role also involves campaign advocacy, writing, and editing and requires 5+ years of relevant experience with specialized knowledge in technology reform policy; legislative or policy experience required; legal background beneficial, but not required.

Responsibilities

Legislative/Executive Branch Advocacy 

• Help develop and drive executive branch strategy and advocacy with key agencies;
• Works independently and collaboratively to research, write, plan, and execute IO’s legislative and policy goals, focusing on technology reform;
• Analyze key legislative proposals at the federal and state level (legal background desirable, but not required);
• Leads the development and execution of a legislative strategy for technology reform on Capitol Hill and with key partners, in collaboration with the Legislative Team;
• Lead and drive policy goals in key issue areas. Policy areas TBD, based on candidate, but may include: data privacy, Section 230 reform, digital regulatory agency, platform transparency and others;
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date legislative trackers and software.

Campaign Advocacy 

• Help design and execute technology reform campaigns (at the state or federal level) and related activities;
• Help manage the workflow and responsibilities of any consultants associated with these campaigns;

Writing and Editing 

• Produces written materials as needed on Issue One’s issue agenda, including testimony, op-eds, letters, blog posts, social media content, etc;
• Assists with the editorial flow as needed (editing, proofreading, etc.)

Other Duties

• Assist with managing and selecting technology interns, and managing their workflow;
• Possible managerial responsibilities of junior staff, contingent upon team needs and candidate experience.

Job-Related Experience 

• 5+ years of experience in a similar legislative, policy or legal role; and
• Proven Hill or policy experience required;
• Specialized knowledge of technology policy, democracy reform or related subjects;
• Legal background desired, but not required.

Job-Related Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities 

• Ability to prioritize, execute, and problem-solve without frequent direction;
• Excellent interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence skills, and an ability to foster new organizational relationships;
• Strong collaborator who is adept at working across teams and with various stakeholders;
• High-level computer skills and ability to learn new programs quickly;
• Commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive political system;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are a must;
• Ability to research, analyze data, summarize, and present findings in a clear manner; and
• A passion for or interest in technology and democracy reform issues.

Structure And Location

This is a full-time, fully benefited position requiring 40 hours per week. This position is required to be in Washington, DC. 

Physical Demands

• Office-based work, mainly desk-based tasks using a computer.
• Occasional lifting, pushing, and carrying objects exceeding 10 pounds.
• Potential for prolonged standing and movement, especially on Capitol Hill.
• Willingness to provide reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities to fulfill job duties.

Benefits

Issue One has developed a comprehensive benefits package that invests in our staff to improve their health and promote a solid work-life balance: 

• All full-time employees are eligible for a platinum health plan with 100% of the premium paid by Issue One. In addition, the organization covers 75% of the premium for all spouses and dependents of IO staff. 
• Staff receives more than 50 paid days off annually, including holidays, vacation, personal time, and office-wide closures. 
• Issue One provides reimbursements and stipends for commuting and any work-related travel.
• Issue One offers wellness reimbursements and student loan assistance. They are also eligible to be reimbursed for stepping outside of their comfort zone and doing something they have never done before. 
• All staff are encouraged to participate in professional development throughout the year, and the organization hosts several opportunities for fun and fellowship. 

Tentative Recruitment Timeline

• September 27-October 11: The position is posted, and resumes are collected 
• October 14-18: Resumes are screened and top candidates are identified for interviews.
• October 21-25: first-round panel interviews take place.
• October 28-November 1: Finalists identified and paid assessment conducted (if needed). 
• November 11-15: Second-round panel interviews with finalists take place (if needed). 
• November 18: Preferred candidate named and the role offered (contingent on a background check and verification of all educational credentials). 
• December 2: New candidate begins (flexible start date).

Special Note: While Issue One will do its best to follow the above timeline, there are instances where the selection process is shortened or delayed due to circumstances beyond our control. The organization will do its best to update all selected candidates on any changes to the timeline. In addition, while resumes may be submitted after October 11, there’s no guarantee they will be screened for a potential interview.

DEI Philosophy and Self-ID Questionnaire 

At Issue One, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) drive everything we do. We celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual brings to our team. Your voice matters to us, and we're committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

As part of our ongoing DEI efforts, we invite all applicants to voluntarily complete our self-identification questionnaire. Rest assured, your responses are confidential and have no impact on your job application. This survey helps us better understand our diverse community, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities for success.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply by clicking ' Apply for this Job' in the top right of this page. Please include how you heard about the position.

Issue One is committed to the principles of equal employment. We are committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities and all other employment laws and regulations. We intend to maintain a work environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation because of age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation (including transgender status, gender identity, or expression), pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), reproductive health decisions, marital status, personal appearance, matriculation, political affiliation, credit information, employment status, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, uniformed service member status, status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, a sexual offense, or stalking, homeless status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. The Company is dedicated to the fulfillment of this policy in regard to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, transfer, training, promotion, rates of pay, fringe benefits, and other compensation, the application of disability and/or temporary disability policies, termination, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.