Deputy Director of People, Culture, and Operations

About Democracy ForwardDemocracy Forward uses the law to build collective power and advance a bold, vibrant democracy for all people.Democracy Forward was founded in the wake of the 2016 election, when it became clear the number and severity of threats to democracy, social progress, and the rule of law would be unprecedented.We built an innovative legal team that took the Trump administration to court more than 100 times, successfully challenging bad actors and their unlawful policies, shutting down corrupt committees created for special interests, and exposing unfair, unreasonable policies that strip vulnerable communities of crucial protections. We secured victories that stopped abuses of power and improved the lives of millions. We filled critical gaps in the legal and regulatory infrastructure and developed a successful model for impact.The courts are now a frontline in the battleground for democracy, not merely the last resort protectors of it.Democracy Forward provides legal representation and expert counsel to people and communities who make up the very fabric of American democracy — free of charge.Our work challenging Trump-era policies prepared us for this moment and the long road ahead. We have built a dynamic and growing team of over 50 staff across the country. Our strategy for legal and regulatory engagement addresses immediate needs while seeding ground for a vibrant future–one where our democracy and government represents and works for all people.Position OverviewDemocracy Forward is seeking a talented leader to serve as the Deputy Director of People, Culture, and Operations, helping guide the organization at a time of growth and opportunity.The Deputy Director will help drive and execute the strategic vision of Democracy Forward and work with teams on a wide range of strategic planning and internal initiatives. Reporting to the Director of People, Culture, and Operations, the Deputy will provide leadership, management, planning, and enhancement of internal organizational systems, processes, policies, and infrastructure.The ideal candidate will have experience growing an organization, working with high-performing teams, attracting and retaining diverse talent, developing and implementing training programs, and improving processes and systems in a fast-paced environment.This is a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiastic, thoughtful and creative professional with a track record of human resources leadership to join a high-impact, growing organization.Key ResponsibilitiesRecruitment, Hiring, Onboarding, OffboardingOversee the recruitment and hiring process for all employeesPartner with the Manager for Talent Acquisition to develop and implement strategies to identify legal and professional staff talent, including establishing relationships with law and undergraduate school to broaden the profile of Democracy ForwardFurther develop onboarding and offboarding protocols, expectations, and proceduresProfessional Development and TrainingIdentify and support opportunities for management and employee professional development and growthWith the Director of PCO create and implement training plans for staff, including for new hires, managers, diversity and inclusion, ethics and complianceSupport the feedback and review process, documentation of performance issues, and performance improvement plansMaintain knowledge of industry trends and best practices in workplace developmentCulture and Employee RelationsFacilitate a culture of belonging and inclusivity among staff and communityEngage employees to develop strong working relationships, build morale, and increase productivity and retention; communicate openly and frequently, keeping staff informedOversee employee events, quarterly retreats, social events, and group activitiesAssess and advance employee engagement and satisfactionDevelop, communicate and administer human resource policies and procedures that will maintain and improve employee relations and shape organizational cultureExhibit understanding, sensitivity and responsiveness to our employee population and oversee the creation and implementation of programs that build momentum for diversity, equity, and inclusionManage and resolve complex employee relations issues, including facilitating employee relations meetings as neededDevelop and advise on internal communications and messagingOperationsOversee remote and physical operations, supervising the Operations Manager and other personnel and facilitating an environment of belonging and inclusivity among staff and communityWorking with the President, Chief of Staff, and Director of People, Culture, and Operations, advise and provide insights for keeping policies and procedures up to date with best practices and compliant with all applicable laws and regulationsOversee all HR administration, including the organization’s benefits programs and payroll approval; manage relationships with benefit brokers and coordinate annual Open EnrollmentQualifications, Skills, and AttributesCandidates should have a passion for the internal workings of organizational management and developing efficient, effective systems and processes that help staff succeed in their jobs. Candidates should thrive when handed a challenge and developing and executing a solution. Candidates should be highly organized, detail-oriented, and adept at handling multiple projects simultaneously in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.Key QualificationsCommitment to Democracy Forward’s mission10+ years of progressively responsible work experience including Human Resources and/or OperationsDemonstrated commitment to values-based leadership that fosters collaboration, inclusivity, and belongingExperience overseeing all aspects of human resources operationsStrong people and project management experienceAbility to deal with conflict effectively and to manage difficult situations confidently and calmlyExperience with and commitment to creating an inclusive cultureExcellent judgment, flexibility, and emotional intelligenceExperience building, growing, and managing teamsExcellent communication skills, both written and verbalSuperb interpersonal skills with the ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgroundsBachelor’s degree strongly preferred (associates or other higher education experience considered)Location, Salary, and BenefitsThis position is located in Washington, DC and will be expected to work in the Democracy Forward office at least several days a week. Candidates will need the ability to occasionally work outside of normal business hours.Democracy Forward provides a competitive, lockstep, and transparent compensation and benefits package. The salary range for this position is $130,000 - $150,000 based on years of relevant experience and seniority.To ApplyDemocracy Forward is in an exciting period of growth which will present opportunities to own and manage projects in a highly collaborative environment. Candidates who are seeking to hone and expand their skills and grow professionally alongside the organization are highly encouraged to apply.Meet some but not all of our qualifications? Don’t let that deter you from applying. If you believe that you could excel in our organization and believe in our mission, we hope you apply. We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds.Submit a resume and a cover letter at https://grossmansolutions.applytojob.com/apply. The cover letter should be concise, compelling, and tells us about your interest in our work and what you would bring to the role. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.Democracy Forward is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals. We strongly encourage people of color; lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex people; women; people with disabilities; and veterans to apply.