The Center for Progressive Leadership
Program Manager, New Leaders Program

The Center for Progressive Leadership (CPL) is a national political training institute dedicated to developing the next generation of progressive political leaders. Through comprehensive, long-term leadership development programs for grassroots activists, community leaders, political staff and future candidates, CPL equips diverse leaders with the skills and resources they need to effectively promote progressive policies and advance progressive change.

CPL is currently seeking a Program Manager for the New Leaders Program.  CPL’s New Leaders Program works to change the face of tomorrow’s political leadership by connecting young people of color, LGBT youth, and women to paid internships and entry-level positions with progressive organizations.  CPL also provides the New Leaders with training and leadership development, mentoring, and networking opportunities to help jump-start lifelong careers in the progressive movement.  More information about our New Leaders Program, including profiles of our New Leaders, can be found at www.progressiveleaders.org/newleadersprogram. 

The New Leaders Program Manager will have the opportunity to continue developing and supporting the summer program in Washington D.C., as well as expanding the New Leaders Program to include year-round opportunities in D.C. and through CPL’s state offices.

The Center for Progressive Leadership was founded in 2003 and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Find out more information at www.progressiveleaders.org.

Job Description:
The Program Manager will work with CPL staff to:

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with progressive political, advocacy, and nonprofit partner organizations to build a network and identify opportunities for New Leaders;

• Identify and recruit qualified young people of color, LGBT youth, women and other individuals to apply for the New Leaders Program;

• Manage the selection and acceptance process for the New Leaders Program, including ongoing communication with New Leaders, reviewing applications, and conducting interviews with top applicants;

• Identify paid internships and entry level positions for New Leaders at progressive political, advocacy, and nonprofit organizations;

• Maintain a database of potential placements and work with partners to match selected New Leaders with appropriate internship and entry-level opportunities;

• Work with CPL’s program staff and partner organizations to design, provide and evaluate trainings, networking events, and mentorship opportunities for New Leaders;

• Provide ongoing logistical support for New Leaders;

• Develop and maintain an active alumni network for New Leaders.

Qualifications:
CPL is a team of dedicated and passionate individuals. Applicants must be high energy and enthusiastic, possess strong leadership skills, have a clear commitment to training and progressive politics, and have significant connections to and experience in engaging youth from traditionally underserved communities.

A strong applicant will:

• Have at least 3 years of experience mobilizing and working with youth, particularly minority, LGBT, and/or other underserved populations;
• Have at least 2 years of experience with outreach and partnership building within progressive politics arena;
• Have at least 2 years of program coordination and/or program management experience, ideally with internship, leadership development or training programs;
• Have a demonstrated commitment to promoting progressive values and causes through long-term leadership development;
• Display exceptional interpersonal, communication and writing skills;
• Display excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize, multi-task and work independently;
• Have the ability to work effectively with a diverse range of individuals;
• Be highly motivated with a flexible schedule that can accommodate weekend and evening training sessions.

CPL is an equal opportunity employer. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.

Location:
The New Leaders Program Manager will be a full-time position based in Washington DC. Some travel may be required.

Salary & Benefits:
Salary for this position will be commensurate with the candidate’s level of relevant professional experience.

How to Apply:
Email a resume and cover letter in a single document, labeled with your name and “New Leaders Program Manager position” to Mandara Meyers, Director of Programs, at mmeyers@progressiveleaders.org.  

Due to the volume of applications, we will unfortunately not be able to acknowledge receipt of all applications.