Innovation Ohio - President & CEO

OverviewInnovation Ohio is a statewide leader in championing progressive issues through strategic communications, research, and coalition building. Founded in 2011, Innovation Ohio has supported advocacy and electoral campaigns through public opinion research, strategic messaging, and policy solutions to help solve challenges facing Ohioans. Innovation Ohio has built a reputation as a battle-tested ally to the Ohio progressive community and a trusted source of information for voters. In 2024, the organization engaged Ohioans at scale, leveraging relational organizing, digital ads, social media, email outreach, and community-building initiatives, reaching millions of voters and 22.9 million digital impressions. Innovation Ohio seeks a collaborative, visionary President & CEO who will set the course for the organization’s next chapter. The ideal candidate is a relationship-driven leader with a deep understanding of political communications, research, and coalition building. This is an opportunity to work with the state’s most impactful organizations and campaigns, be a thought leader and catalyst to build progressive power, and provide visionary leadership for the future.ABOUT INNOVATION OHIOInnovation Ohio (c4) and Innovation Ohio Education Fund (c3) are dedicated to creating a more just and equitable society by advocating for progressive policy and grassroots action. Based in Columbus, Innovation Ohio connects advocacy, activism, and policymaking to improve the lives of Ohioans, hold politicians accountable, and shape policies at all levels of government. Innovation Ohio helps progressive organizations and campaigns better understand voter attitudes and optimize messaging. Its research subsidiary provides strategic, affordable access to focus groups, polling, data modeling, and message testing. Through coalition building, research, and unified messaging, Innovation Ohio creates opportunities for all Ohioans and builds stronger communities from the ground up.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership and StrategyVoice a clear, compelling vision for the organization that galvanizes internal and external stakeholdersLeverage knowledge of political communications and research to drive impactful programs and campaigns and identify strategic opportunities to advance Innovation Ohio’s workWork effectively across the progressive movement in Ohio; build and maintain relationships with progressive leaders, partner organizations, funders, and other key stakeholdersServe as a thought leader and public face of the organization, engaging with media, elected officials, and community leaders to promote Innovation Ohio’s mission and brandGuide the organization with confidence, clarity, and collaborative decision-makingCommunications and ResearchDevelop and execute robust, strategic communications and advocacy initiatives that advance progressive issues and Innovation Ohio’s missionFoster deep collaboration with partner organizations and serve as a trusted thought partner; drive communications strategies and provide research deliverables to reach shared advocacy and electoral goalsLead stakeholders in building strategic research plans, including the development of polling and message testingServe as a progressive communications hub and convene partners to share messaging guidance, research, and other communication resourcesFundraising and DevelopmentLead Innovation Ohio’s fundraising effortsIdentify fundraising opportunities and grow Innovation Ohio’s networks in Ohio and nationallyCultivate relationships with potential new sources and deepen relationships with existing fundersInspire confidence in Innovation Ohio’s work to create and sustain a network of committed, engaged supportersFinancial ManagementOversee financial planning, compliance, and operational management to ensure fiscal health and accountabilityLead the development of the annual budget and ensure it aligns with the organization’s goals and prioritiesMonitor financial performance on an ongoing basisProvide reports and regular updates to the Board of Directors on the financial health of the organizationOrganizational and Staff ManagementFoster an inclusive, collaborative work environment where all voices are heard and respectedEmpower, support, and inspire a passionate, mission-driven staffDevelop, maintain, and support the Board of Directors; seek and build board engagement with strategy, governance, financial oversight, and resource developmentEmbody Innovation Ohio’s values and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusionKey QualificationsInnovation Ohio recognizes that the next President & CEO could bring various experiences to the role. IO is seeking candidates with a compelling leadership background who will bring a majority of the following to the role:A passion for Innovation Ohio’s missionAt least 10 years of progressively responsible work experience in advocacy or politicsA proven track record of successfully leading robust programs, campaigns, or organizations, including setting, prioritizing, and achieving impactful strategies and goalsExpertise developing and leading communications strategies for progressive organizations or campaignsDemonstrated experience with research, including polling and message testing, and integrating those findings into broader campaign strategiesCreative, resourceful leader who understands the opportunities and challenges of working in tough political environmentsProven fundraiser who can build relationships with funders and donors, attract new sources of revenue, and bolster an organization’s financial sustainabilityOutstanding communications skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to inspire and motivateExceptional interpersonal skills with an impressive history of forging authentic relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders and experience working in coalitionsAbility to navigate high-level politics and complex relationships with levels of nuanceStaff management experience with a talent for empowering and supporting staffFinancial management experience, including managing multiple funding streamsAbility to develop and collaborate with the Board of DirectorsCommitment to creating a positive, inclusive work environmentCompensation, Location, and StructureThe salary range for this full-time position is $120,000-$130,000, which includes bonus opportunities. Innovation Ohio provides a generous benefits package.This position is based in Ohio. The President & CEO should expect to travel to Columbus and across the state as necessary in addition to occasional travel to national conferences and out-of-state donor meetings.The President & CEO will report to the Board of Directors.How to ApplyInnovation Ohio is conducting this search in partnership with Grossman Solutions. Please submit a resume and cover letter online at the following link: 2019. Not applicable. The actual link is the URL below:applications submitted through this website will be considered. Applications will be considered on a rolling novation Ohio values diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, class, ability, and background. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and people with disabilities to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-10-06