Manager, Data Strategy & Learning

About the Role:

The Manager of Data Strategy & Learning will help Defy Ventures strengthen how we use data to drive program quality, equity, and continuous improvement across our national network. As we implement a new data management system (Apricot-Bonterra), this role will guide the transition from fragmented tracking to more reliable, consistent, and actionable use of data.

This person will be responsible for supporting staff across sites in understanding the system, validating the accuracy and completeness of entries, and translating data into insights that inform decision-making. They will play a lead role in identifying patterns, tracking implementation fidelity, and ensuring we stay aligned with our program goals.

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical fluency and the ability to raise the level of shared understanding across diverse teams.They should be equally comfortable troubleshooting real-time challenges with staff and shaping long-term data strategies. If you're someone who enjoys turning complexity into clarity, coaching others toward better habits, and using data as a lever for social change, this is an opportunity to lead that work from the inside.

Please Note: This is a remote position, but candidates must reside in a state where Defy Ventures operates an active chapter: California, Washington, Utah, Illinois, Pennsylvania, or the Tri-State area (NY/NJ/CT). For staff located within 45 miles of an established Defy Ventures’ office, this position is hybrid, (work from the office one day per week, work from home up to 4 days). For staff located outside that radius, this position will be fully remote.

Key Responsibilities

1. Database Management
   1. Serve as lead administrator for Bonterra/Apricot case management system
   2. Monitor and audit field-level data for accuracy, completeness, and alignment with Defy’s standards.
   3. Provide ongoing support and feedback loops to ensure high-quality data entry and program fidelity and continuous improvement for database design
   4. Maintain systems that uphold integrity in data reporting and stakeholder confidence.
2. Data Analysis and Narration
   1. Interpret Data Management System dashboards to surface insights about outcomes, implementation patterns, and equity gaps.
   2. Translate raw data into compelling narratives that inform decision-making at the program, executive, and board levels.
   3. Identify trends, risks, and areas for improvement to drive continuous learning.
3. Staff Training and Fluency Building
   1. Design and facilitate trainings, user guides, and 1:1 coaching to build staff capacity in data literacy and Data Management System use.
   2. Equip program managers to independently interpret and act on their own data.
   3. Promote a reflective culture where data informs strategy, not just compliance.
4. System Outcome Design and Continuous Improvement
   1. Partner with program leaders to refine outcome measures and milestone tracking systems.
   2. Support integration of qualitative insights (e.g., case notes, narratives) with quantitative metrics.
   3. Co-lead learning loops that help the national team adapt and evolve programming based on evidence.
5. Grant Reporting and External Requests
   1. Package data into digestible summaries for grant reporting, funder updates, and board presentations.
   2. Respond to ad hoc data inquiries with clarity, alignment, and speed.
   3. Collaborate across teams to ensure consistency and quality in all external data deliverables.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in data management, program evaluation, or performance management, preferably in a nonprofit or justice-aligned setting
• Strong practice in cleaning and organizing data efficiently and thoroughly
• Demonstrated ability to create and interpret dashboards or reports using Excel, Power BI, Google Sheets, Looker Studio or similar tools
• Experience translating quantitative and qualitative data into clear, compelling insights for non-technical audiences
• Strong facilitation or coaching skills to enable or guide others in building confidence and fluency with data
• Strong alignment with Defy's mission and a commitment to advancing equity through reflection, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a collaborative approach to cross-functional problem-solving

Preferred

• Experience supporting reentry, workforce development, or entrepreneurship programs
• Knowledge of survey design, participatory evaluation, or human-centered outcomes measurement
• Able to think critically about data sources to support fundraising and storytelling efforts
• Familiarity with the unique dynamics of multistate program implementation

About Us:

Defy Ventures is an entrepreneurship, employment, and personal development training program that recognizes the potential in many formerly and currently incarcerated people to become successful, legal entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs inTraining (EITs) “defy the odds” through our program, which includes intensive leadership development, Shark Tank-style business pitch competitions,and executive mentoring. We work to address injustice through our commitment to changing perceptions, breaking cycles of recidivism, and helping people to create equity in historically marginalized communities.

Defy Ventures is an equal opportunity employer. Defy Ventures uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires in the United States. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race,color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran,or disability status.