Job Description

Job Title: Vice President of Research and Programs
Reports To: President
Location: Hybrid, Washington, DC

ABOUT THE JOINT CENTER

The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies (Joint Center), America’s Black think tank, provides compelling and actionable policy solutions to eradicate persistent and evolving barriers to the full freedom of Black people in America. For more than 50 years, the Joint Center has been the trusted forum for leading experts and scholars to participate in major public policy debates and promote ideas that advance Black communities. The Joint Center uses evidence-based research, analysis, convenings, and strategic communications to support Black communities and a network of allies.

Founded in 1970 to support newly elected Black officials who were moving from civil rights activism into governance, the Joint Center quickly evolved into America’s Black think tank. Currently, the Joint Center focuses on the future of work in Black communities, the impact of economic policies on Black communities, technology policy and Black communities, congressional staff diversity, and Black presidential appointments.

The Vice President of Research and Programs will lead the strategic direction, management, and execution of the Joint Center’s research and programmatic efforts. This individual will work closely with program directors, researchers, and senior leadership to ensure that the Joint Center’s work is rigorous, impactful, and aligned with its mission to advance Black communities.

The Vice President of Research and Programs will oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of the organization’s research agenda and initiatives, ensuring the delivery of high-quality outputs and outcomes.

As a key member of the Joint Center’s senior leadership team, the Vice President of Research and Programs will collaborate with the President’s Office, the Chief of Staff, the Vice President of Government Affairs, and the Chief Financial Officer to set the organization’s strategic direction.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic and experienced leader with a strong background in research, program management, and policy analysis, and a demonstrated commitment to advancing equity and justice for Black communities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Research Strategy, Vision & Leadership

• Develop and oversee the Joint Center’s research agenda with input from the research team and in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Ensure that all research initiatives align with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Frame research questions and projects that address critical issues affecting Black communities and produce high-impact outputs (e.g., reports, issue briefs, op-eds, convenings, and public appearances).
• Monitor trends and developments in key areas affecting Black communities to identify emerging issues and opportunities for thought leadership.
• Work with development staff to identify and cultivate opportunities for funding to support strategic research initiatives.

Program Management & Execution

• Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs that translate research findings into actionable solutions for Black communities.
• Ensure programs are impactful, relevant, and align with funder commitments and organizational goals.
• Collaborate with program staff in preparing and managing budgets, timelines, and deliverables for major initiatives.
• Foster cross-departmental collaboration to ensure alignment between research, policy, and programmatic efforts.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships

• Represent the Joint Center in external forums, including meetings with policymakers, academic institutions, advocacy organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with key partners, including fellow research institutions, funders, and community leaders.
• Collaborate with Communications to disseminate research findings and program outcomes to diverse audiences.
• Lead and support a team of researchers and programmatic professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration within the research and programs teams.
• Ensure the recruitment and retention of top talent to advance the Joint Center’s mission and goals.
• Establish systems and processes to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality work products and reports.

QUALIFICATIONS

• An advanced degree in economics, political science, public policy, sociology, or a related field is required.
• Extensive experience in research design, program management, and policy analysis, with a focus on issues affecting Black communities.
• Proven track record of managing and leading high-performing teams.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex research into actionable insights for diverse audiences.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, and community organizations.
• Knowledge of the national policy landscape and its implications for Black communities.
• Commitment to the Joint Center’s mission and cultural principles.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $200k-$230k. Benefits include 100% employer-sponsored healthcare, dental, and vision for the employee, as well as a meaningful contribution to our 403(b) plan. Generous PTO, quarterly mental health days, and no-meeting Fridays.

The Joint Center is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status.

TO APPLY

Please send a resume and cover letter to recruiting@jointcenter.org no later than June 27, 2025. You must include the job title in the subject line.

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