Better Utah is seeking a full-time Deputy Director dedicated to supporting our mission and work. Alliance for a Better Utah is a nonpartisan 501(c)(4) nonprofit that seeks to drive a public narrative that empowers Utahns and holds public officials accountable. We use messaging research, communications strategies, coalition building, and online organizing to advance the conversation on progressive policies and good government, focusing on long-term change in our state while also pushing back against policies and bad actors that harm individuals and communities.
Employees of Alliance for a Better Utah also work to advance the mission of Better Utah Institute, our affiliated nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit that also uses innovative and creative communications strategies to educate Utahns on issues of public concern and to increase civic engagement throughout our state.
The Deputy Director’s primary role is to supervise and coordinate Better Utah’s programs and communications, as managed by those under their supervision, and ensure they align with the strategic goals, objectives, and plans of the organization. As a deputy to the Executive Director, the Deputy Director manages the organization in their absence, and works with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, development team, and Tech Manager to achieve Better Utah’s strategic vision. This position reports to the Executive Director.
Responsibilities
- Programs & Communications (50-60%)
- Coordinate the management of Better Utah’s programs and ensure their implementation aligns with strategic and annual goals, objectives, and plans.
- Stay up-to-date on current events and proposals related to politics and policy, with an emphasis on those that are directly related to current programs.
- Lead Better Utah’s communications, including blog, social media, and other editorial calendar content, assisted by programs, communications, development, and other staff, as required by their responsibilities or organizational needs, as well as by the Board of Directors and other volunteers.
- Serve as the press liaison and primary spokesperson for Better Utah and, when appropriate, coordinate, mentor, and provide feedback for other staff as spokespersons.
- As assigned, serve as liaison on coalitions to gather information, coordinate actions, and promote Better Utah’s programs and communications, and coordinate program and communications staff to serve as liaisons on coalitions related to their responsibilities and programs.
- Managerial (20-25%)
- Supervise, mentor, and evaluate Better Utah’s program and communications staff.
- Assist the Executive Director in the recruitment, interview, and selection process of hiring new programs and communications staff.
- Reporting (10-15%)
- With the assistance of program and communications staff, regularly analyze and report on the performance of programs and communications in meeting the strategic and annual goals of the organization for internal, board, development, and other reporting purposes.
- With the assistance of program and communications staff, regularly analyze and report on the performance of programs and communications in meeting the strategic and annual goals of the organization for internal, board, development, and other reporting purposes.
- Administrative (10%)
- Manage the organization in the absence of the Executive Director.
- Assist the Executive Director in planning and implementing annual and quarterly goals, objectives, budgets, and plans that support Better Utah’s strategic vision, goals, and objectives.
- With the assistance of programs and communications staff, plan and implement annual and quarterly goals, objectives, budgets, and plans for programs and communications that help meet Better Utah’s strategic, annual, and quarterly goals and objectives.
- Consult with the development team to plan and implement fundraising opportunities into programs and communications, and when appropriate, assist with development activities, such as meeting with current and potential donors, writing grant proposals, and preparing development materials.
- Consult with the Tech Manager to identify, utilize, and evaluate adequate and innovative technology resources and infrastructure that support the programs and communications of the organization.
- As assigned, serve as liaison to a Board of Directors committee and assist the chair with their duties.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Required:
- A commitment to advancing the vision, mission, and values of Better Utah
- Experience in an organizing, campaign, advocacy, policy, and/or other political role
- Experience with leading teams and inspiring others, including those working under your supervision
- Strong written and verbal communications skills
- Ability to navigate complex partner relationships and agendas while collaborating toward shared goals
- A commitment to intersectional organizing, advocacy, and communications, bringing a strong equity focus to all aspects of the work
- The following are not required, but a plus:
- Knowledge of and/or experience working with different types of nonprofit organizations, including 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and political action committees, and political issue committees
- Experience with political and/or policy communications, including press relations and both earned and paid campaigns through both traditional, new, and social media outlets
- Familiarity with the progressive political and/or policy landscape of Utah, including nonprofit and political organizations, labor, elected officials, and other stakeholders
- Familiarity with political organizing tools, such as ActionKit
Compensation
Starting salary range is $47,500–$52,500. We offer health insurance, as well as generous vacation and other paid leave policies.
How to Apply
If for any reason the application form is not working, send a resume and cover letter to jobs@betterutah.org with the subject heading “Deputy Director Application.” Please send all questions regarding this position to Chase Thomas, Executive Director at chase@betterutah.org.
Alliance for a Better Utah is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture and we encourage people of color, women, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals to apply.