Job Description

THE OPPORTUNITY

Innovation Ohio is a statewide leader in championing progressive issues through strategic communications, research, and coalition building.

Founded in 2011, Innovation Ohio has been instrumental in providing the building blocks for advocacy and electoral campaigns – from public opinion research to strategic messaging to policy solutions – to help solve the biggest challenges facing Ohioans.

Innovation Ohio has built a reputation for being a battle-tested ally to the Ohio progressive community and a trusted source of information for voters.

In 2024, the organization engaged Ohioans on an unprecedented scale. Through a robust combination of relational organizing, digital ads, social media, email outreach, and community-building initiatives, Innovation Ohio engaged millions of voters, including reaching 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 incredible 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 OHIO

Innovation 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 plays a pivotal role in supporting campaigns by providing 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 RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Strategy

• Voice a clear, compelling vision for the organization that galvanizes internal and external stakeholders
• Leverage knowledge of political communications and research to drive impactful programs and campaigns and identify strategic opportunities to advance Innovation Ohio’s work
• Work effectively across the progressive movement in Ohio; build and maintain relationships with progressive leaders, partner organizations, funders, and other key stakeholders
• Serve 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 brand
• Guide the organization with confidence, clarity, and collaborative decision-making

Communications and Research

• Develop and execute robust, strategic communications and advocacy initiatives that advance progressive issues and Innovation Ohio’s mission
• Foster 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 goals
• Lead stakeholders in building strategic research plans, including the development of polling and message testing
• Serve as a progressive communications hub and convene partners to share messaging guidance, research, and other communication resources

Fundraising and Development

• Lead Innovation Ohio’s fundraising efforts
• Identify fundraising opportunities and grow Innovation Ohio’s networks in Ohio and nationally
• Cultivate relationships with potential new sources and deepen relationships with existing funders
• Inspire confidence in Innovation’s Ohio work to create and sustain a network of committed, engaged supporters

Financial Management

• Oversee financial planning, compliance, and operational management to ensure fiscal health and accountability
• Lead the development of the annual budget and ensure it aligns with the organization’s goals and priorities
• Monitor financial performance on an ongoing basis
• Provide reports and regular updates to the Board of Directors on the financial health of the organization

Organizational and Staff Management

• Foster an inclusive, collaborative work environment where all voices are heard and respected
• Empower, support, and inspire a passionate, mission-driven staff
• Develop, maintain, and support the Board of Directors; seek and build board engagement with strategy, governance, financial oversight, and resource development
• Embody Innovation Ohio’s values and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

Innovation 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 mission
• At least 10 years of progressively responsible work experience in advocacy or politics
• A proven track record of successfully leading robust programs, campaigns, or organizations, including setting, prioritizing, and achieving impactful strategies and goals
• Expertise developing and leading communications strategies for progressive organizations or campaigns
• Demonstrated experience with research, including polling and message testing, and integrating those findings into broader campaign strategies
• Creative, resourceful leader who understands the opportunities and challenges of working in tough political environments
• Proven fundraiser who can build relationships with funders and donors, attract new sources of revenue, and bolster an organization's financial sustainability
• Outstanding communications skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to inspire and motivate
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with an impressive history of forging authentic relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders and experience working in coalitions
• Ability to navigate high-level politics and complex relationships with levels of nuance
• Staff management experience with a talent for empowering and supporting staff
• Financial management experience, including managing multiple funding streams
• Ability to develop and collaborate with the Board of Directors
• Commitment to creating a positive, inclusive work environment

COMPENSATION, LOCATION, AND STRUCTURE

The 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.

TO APPLY

Innovation Ohio is conducting this search in partnership with Grossman Solutions. Please submit a resume and cover letter online at

Only applications submitted through this website will be considered. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Innovation 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.

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