Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) is seeking a responsible, proven leader committed to drug policy reform and grassroots activism to lead the organization with vision and confidence.

Students for Sensible Drug Policy, a grassroots political advocacy organization with a member network of thousands and a national staff of six, is seeking a highly motivated, well-organized individual to help promote alternatives to the failed War on Drugs. This is a full-time position that is ideal for a person with prior experience in management, fundraising, and campaign development. This position is based in Washington, DC. However, the option of working out of our San Francisco, CA office will be considered on an individual basis.

The responsibility of the Executive Director is to oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization. Specifically, the Executive Director sets the direction of the organization in terms of objectives, strategies, and tactics and ensures the organization has the human and monetary resources to meet its mission.

To that end, the Executive Director will plan and implement programs consistent with the vision, values, and mission of the organization; manage the organization's staff, including the evaluation, termination, and employment of staff as necessary; raise funds to sustain and strengthen the organization and oversee the organization's finances; cultivate relationships with organizations and individuals with similar objectives, strategies, and tactics; serve as the spokesperson for the organization; and assist the Board of Directors in developing the vision and values of the organization.

A qualified applicant will have a track record of proven and responsible leadership. He or she will have concise and cogent writing skills, as well as pay close attention to detail. The applicant will communicate orally with comfort and conviction and will be a successful public speaker. The ability to be assertive is a must as is comfort working with people of all ages, especially youth. A qualified candidate will be a self-starter who's creative in developing strategies and tactics. A demonstrated dedication to reform of drug laws and policies is valuable, but not necessary, as is a smart, savvy political sense. There is no required minimum number of years of work experience; however, this is not an entry-level position. We are asking for a three year commitment for this position. The Executive Director manages three outreach directors, a field director, and an alumni director, and reports to the Board of Directors. Salary is commensurate with experience, minimum $40,000. Benefits include health care.

Visit http://www.ssdp.org/jobs for more information about SSDP or this position. The application deadline is May 8, 2009, and the position starts Summer 2009 in Washington, DC.

Interested applicants should fill out the webform at http://www.ssdp.org/careers.php?details=1&jobID=4 where you will be asked to upload a one-page cover letter and one- or two-page resume. In your cover letter, please indicate (1) how you learned about SSDP's job opening; (2) why you are interested in working with SSDP; (3) why you think this particular position is a good fit for you; (4) what experience you have in student organizing or drug policy reform work; and (5) what experience you have in management, fundraising, and campaign development. Feel free to include any additional information you deem relevant, such as writing samples or references.

Students for Sensible Drug Policy is a national network of youth committed to an open, honest, and inclusive dialogue on alternatives to our country's approach to drug use, abuse, and addiction. Through youth involvement in the political process, we work to reform drug laws and policies that adversely affect youth and their access to education.

Students for Sensible Drug Policy is an equal opportunity employer. SSDP has a strong commitment to diversity and, as such, women, people of color, LGBT individuals, and individuals who have been directly affected by the Drug War are encouraged to apply.

SSDP's office in Washington, DC is located near Dupont Circle (on the Red Line of the Metro) and the San Francisco office is based in Bayview, which is accessible by MUNI. SSDP has a fun, professional work environment.