Job Details

Do you want to lead at the intersection of US national security, private philanthropy, and global impact? Do you want to be part of a high-performing entrepreneurial team that is making groundbreaking contributions to stability, peace, and freedom?

Spirit of America unites the American people with US troops and diplomats to help them succeed in their missions, strengthen security, and save and improve lives. Spirit of America is seeking an exceptional, mission-driven leader to serve as Director of Strategic Initiatives. Reporting to the Head of Strategic Initiatives, this position plays a crucial role in identifying, developing, and implementing high-impact programs that support national security objectives in the world's most challenging environments.

We are looking for a strategic, entrepreneurial leader who can translate complex challenges into actionable initiatives and drive them to successful completion. This is a full-time exempt position based in our Arlington, VA office.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead strategic initiatives that address critical national security priorities, from concept through implementation and evaluation
• Build cross-functional teams to execute complex initiatives in challenging global environments and support the Head of Strategic Initiatives with the mentoring of the team and manage the Entrepreneurs in Residence Program
• Establish initiative objectives, metrics, timelines, and resource requirements aligned with organizational priorities
• Develop and promote relationships with key stakeholders including senior US military leaders, Department of State officials, foreign partners, and civil society organizations
• Design and implement project lifecycle management processes including planning, budgeting, procurement, logistics coordination, and post-project assessments
• Develop compelling content and impact narratives to engage donors and partners, in coordination with development and marketing teams
• Analyze geopolitical developments and security trends to identify emerging opportunities for Spirit of America's involvement
• Represent Spirit of America at high-level meetings, conferences, and events with government partners and stakeholders
• Work closely with development team to secure resources needed for strategic initiatives

Qualities and Qualifications:

You want to be part of something much bigger than yourself. You want to be a part of a high-performing, mission-first team. You are looking for an opportunity to showcase your strategic vision and leadership abilities.

You have a vast network of relationships and build trust easily with diverse stakeholders from government officials to frontline implementers. With many demands that exceed capacity, you maintain the ability to prioritize effectively and focus resources on initiatives with the highest potential impact. You have the mental agility to navigate easily across multiple complex projects and geopolitical contexts. You learn quickly and find creative ways to overcome obstacles. You are confident, resilient, and organized. You are a gifted communicator who can articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. You thrive in a culture that prizes teamwork, open communication, entrepreneurship, and results. Even with your many accomplishments, you are humble. You treat people equally well no matter who they are.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree required
• Over 15 years of relevant professional experience in national security, foreign policy, international development, or related fields
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing complex initiatives in challenging environments
• Experience working with US military, Department of State, or other government agencies
• Strong leadership skills with proven ability to build and manage high-performing teams
• Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
• Outstanding relationship management skills and ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Excellent project management experience with proven ability to deliver results on time and within budget
• Superior written and verbal communication skills
• Genuine connection to Spirit of America's mission and a passion for national security, foreign policy, and America's role in the world
• Desire to solve problems, not only analyze them

Compensation:

Salary range from $145,000 to $195,000 based on experience. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, and 403(b) contribution match to 4%.

Spirit of America:

Spirit of America is a nonprofit citizen service organization founded in response to the attacks of 9/11. Our mission is to engage citizens in preserving the promise of a free and better life. We do this by working alongside troops and diplomats to support their safety and success, promoting values shared by Americans and our allies, strengthening relationships with allies, friends, and partners, and demonstrating that the United States is a friend to all who seek a better life.

Spirit of America helps our troops and diplomats build trust and goodwill, prevent conflict, and strengthen America's security. Our work saves and improves lives. In the world's toughest places, people experience the best of who Americans are and what we stand for.

Spirit of America is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable law, we prohibit discrimination against any applicant or employee based on any legally-recognized basis, including, but not limited to: veteran status, uniformed service member status, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age (40 and over), pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics) or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local law. Our commitment to equal opportunity employment applies to all persons involved in our operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee, including supervisors and co-workers.