Freedom House is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that works to defend and expand freedom globally. The Deputy Director of Policy and Advocacy reports to the Director of Policy and Advocacy and will play a leading role in advancing Freedom House's policy priorities and advocacy agenda in support of democracy and human rights around the world. This is a full-time, hybrid position based in Washington, DC, with regular in-office days required.
The Deputy Director will strengthen and expand Freedom House's external policy and advocacy footprint through coalition engagement, thought leadership and policy publications, public events, and participation in international convenings. The role involves formulating and refining policy positions and engaging with Congress, the executive branch, and foreign government officials. The position requires a versatile professional able to work across multiple geographic and thematic portfolios, with a particular focus on international religious freedom and issues including political prisoners, democratic resilience, accountability for human rights abuses, and transnational repression, through bipartisan policy advocacy.
Key responsibilities:
- Deepen engagement with Congress and the executive branch through bipartisan advocacy; cultivate new congressional and policy champions.
- Develop advocacy campaigns around key thematic and country priorities, particularly international religious freedom or belief.
- Author policy briefs, recommendations, congressional testimony, op-eds, talking points, letters and statements.
- Strengthen internal systems for tracking and documenting external policy engagement.
- Build relationships with civil society organizations, human rights defenders, policymakers and partners, and lead or contribute to coalition-based advocacy.
- Prepare human rights defenders and frontline partners for meetings, hearings, briefings and public events.
- Strengthen Freedom House's presence at major international conferences and policy convenings; organize roundtables, briefings and public events.
- Monitor policy, legislative and political developments and recommend advocacy opportunities and positions.
- Support major events including the annual Freedom Awards and the Mark Palmer Prize.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in international affairs, political science, human rights or a related field required; Master's preferred.
- At least 9 years of directly relevant professional experience, including substantial hands-on policy or advocacy experience and a demonstrated ability to advance legislation or policy agendas.
- Experience on human rights, democracy or related foreign policy issues and advocating with U.S. and international policymakers; U.S. Congress experience strongly preferred.
- Proven ability to research, analyze and write on complex policy issues, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and exercise sound strategic and political judgment.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication, organizational and project-management skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with Salesforce, KnowWho or Airtable is a plus.
Salary range: $110,000 to $130,000 annually. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, a 403(b) plan with up to 10% employer match, generous leave, and a flexible hybrid work culture.
HOW TO APPLY:
Complete the online application form and submit a resume and a cover letter outlining your interests and qualifications for this position. Candidates must have authorization to work in the United States independent of Freedom House sponsorship.
https://phe.tbe.taleo.net/phe01/ats/careers/v2/applyRequisition?org=FREEHOUS&cws=39&rid=1585