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SalarySenior Program Manager
The National Policing Institute (NPI), voted one of Nonprofit Times’ Best Nonprofits to Work For in 2022 and 2023, is a non-partisan 501(c)(3) committed to improving policing through science and innovation since 1973. NPI’s work is informed by evidence to increase public safety and strengthen communities. The professional staff of NPI works closely with law enforcement and industry experts to develop research, comprehensive reports, model policies, and innovative programs that advance the profession. Additionally, NPI facilitates on-the-ground technical assistance to police and sheriff’s agencies, as well as engages with practitioners from multiple public systems in local, state, and federal jurisdictions to share research and implement policy and practice.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The Senior Program Manager (SPM) serves as an internal subject matter expert, program, and project manager, and has responsibility for effective grant management. The SPM will integrate NPI’s strategic goals into projects and initiatives and drive the organization’s mission forward. The SPM will be responsible for all aspects of project management, building teams of staff and experts to design, develop, and implement programs in partnership with funders, practitioners and other stakeholders to deliver meaningful and evidence-based training and technical assistance (TTA) to the field. The SPM will work collaboratively with NPI’s researchers to ensure evidence-based practices are infused into all TTA provided to the field.
The SPM will also be responsible for in-depth analysis of relevant policy, practices, organizations and strategies within policing. This position offers a significant level of responsibility and opportunity for an individual with an established career in policing, criminal justice policy, training and technical assistance development and delivery, or scientific research, to advance the policing profession. The SPM reports to a director but is expected to be capable of working and making sound decisions independently when appropriate.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Core functions and duties may include:
- Program Development: Developing and designing programs that address specific social issues or research questions within the social sciences domain.
- Strategic Planning: Creating long-term strategies and goals for the program in alignment with organizational objectives and societal needs.
- Budget Management: Managing the budget for the program, including allocating funds effectively, tracking expenses, and ensuring financial accountability.
- Project Management: Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the program, including coordinating activities, managing timelines, and ensuring that tasks are completed on schedule, with high levels of funder/client satisfaction.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Building and maintaining relationships with key program stakeholders, including funding agencies, partner organizations, researchers, and community members through direct engagement and public speaking.
- Resource Mobilization: Identifying and pursuing opportunities and proposals for funding and resources to support the program's and NPI’s activities and sustainability.
- Evaluation and Assessment: Developing evaluation frameworks and methods to assess the effectiveness and impact of program activities and using findings to inform program improvements.
- Research, Analysis, and Writing: Conducting or overseeing research activities within the program, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation, and effectively writing and reviewing program materials, reports, and publications that can be policy-oriented, technical, and/or scientific.
- Communication, Engagement, and Dissemination: Work proactively and collaboratively with the Communications and Marketing and Strategy and Engagement teams to ensure that the program and its outcomes are effectively promoted and shared with key audiences and stakeholders including during high-level public presentations.
- Team Leadership: Providing leadership and guidance to program staff, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, and promoting professional development opportunities.
- Compliance and Ethics: Ensuring that program activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards, including those related to finance, research ethics, and participant protection.
Overall, the role of the SPM is multifaceted, requiring a combination of leadership, organizational, analytical, and communication skills to effectively address complex problems and contribute to positive change.
REQUIREMENTS AND EDUCATION
- Committed to advancing NPI’s mission, goals, values, and programs, with a strong understanding of a wide range of criminal justice issues and their implications.
- Comprehensive understanding of and strong interest in policing or justice organizations and practices, or related social science research.
- 10+ years of work experience, ideally, in the field of policing, law, or criminal justice policy or practice.
- A desire to manage grants and large-scale projects, at times independently.
- Federal grant management experience, Department of Justice experience desired.
- Excellent project management skills and capabilities.
- Exceptional writing and editing skills in a policy or scientific professional environment.
- Strong oral communication skills, including the ability to effectively distill and present complex information in a concise way.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to work independently and in a team setting, at all levels within stakeholder groups.
- Efficient, organized work style and ability to quickly prioritize and confidently manage multiple deadlines.
- An advanced degree is strongly preferred, and candidates with a project management certification or those interested in pursuing certification are encouraged to apply.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- This is a full-time position and is eligible for remote work.
- Salary is commensurate with experience and includes a competitive benefits package.
- Open until filled. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Must agree to a background investigation.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
- Frequent travel up to 3-5 days per month may be required at times.
The National Policing Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity,sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
