The Midwest Democracy Network (MDN) is a non-partisan alliance of political reform advocates committed to improving democratic institutions in Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin. Partners include state-based and national advocacy groups, as well as prominent academic and policy institutions. Network members share the belief that our fundamental democratic values and principles – especially those that speak to honesty, fairness, transparency, accountability, citizen participation, competition, respect for constitutional rights and the rule of law, and the public’s need for reliable information – must be continuously reinforced and fiercely protected against those who see politics as a means to promote narrow interests rather than the common good.

Toward these ends, participating organizations seek to reduce the influence of money in politics, keep our courts fair and impartial, promote open and transparent government, create fair processes for drawing congressional and legislative districts, guarantee the integrity of our election systems, promote ethical government and lobbying practices, and democratize the media.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The MDN executive director will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the Midwest Democracy Network. Specific duties will include:

1) Maintaining the MDN Website , www.midwestdemocracynetwork.org

The MDN website requires regular maintenance to ensure it stays current with the activities of the network and its partner units, including uploading content, archiving old materials, and staying connected to relevant news from around the region and the nation.

2) Fundraising

The MDN is looking for a candidate that can research funding opportunities, establish relationships with funders, and help to develop grant proposals to fund general operating costs and new project initiatives.

3) Organizing Meetings

The MDN Executive Director will be responsible for organizing and managing the logistics of Network, Steering Committee and other affiliate meetings.

4) Project Development

The Executive Director will be responsible for managing the evolution and oversight of Network projects and region-wide policy research initiatives, including the management of consultants and keeping key parties alert to developments and deadlines as they arise.

5) Maintain and Diversify Network Partnerships

The Executive Director will support MDN’s growth by seeking potential new members throughout the region, as well as identifying opportunities and appropriate venues for communicating our message with like-minded partners around the country. The Executive Director will also assist, as circumstances warrant, in the development of affinity groups of academics, lawyers, or legislators and policy makers to guide the Network’s work.

6) Assisting with Capacity Building and Strategic Planning

The Executive Director will work with the steering committee, partners and consultants to develop a workable governance structure and communications system for MDN. The director will also develop programming and disseminate resources to help Network partner groups to increase their internal capacity and improve their management practices.

7) Media Outreach and Communications

The Executive Director will manage the Network’s media lists, track coverage and prepare press materials. The director will also be charged with developing a database of MDN supporters and instituting a communications plan to keep them apprised of MDN Network activities and pertinent policy developments.

8) General Management and Financial Oversight

The Executive Director will regularly provide reports to the steering committee and membership at

large on management issues and the Network’s financial status.

Qualifications: College degree and at least five years of progressively responsible work experience. Advanced degree preferred. The position requires a detail -oriented, flexible, self-starter with a professional presentation. A qualified candidate for the position would have the following attributes:

• Previous non profit or management experience
• A strong interest in and commitment to the mission of the Network and familiarity with the Great Lakes region

• Proven research and written skills, particularly in grant writing
• Administrative experience and the ability to juggle multiple assignments
• Organizational and meeting planning skills
• Familiarity with websites and solid computer skills

• Strong communications and interpersonal skills

This is a permanent, part-time position that will require approximately 27 hours per week. We offer a competitive salary and flexible benefits package. Some travel and evening hours will be required.

The MDN Executive Director will be housed with of one of the MDN partner groups. That group will serve as the MDN fiscal agent; provide basic accounting and administrative support, to ensure communication, efficiency and the ability to establish an office economically. The Executive Director will regularly consult with, report to, and be accountable to the MDN steering committee or board of directors.

To Apply : candidates should send or fax their resume and a cover letter stating qualifications and salary requirements to Cynthia Canary, Illinois Campaign for Political Reform, 325 W. Huron, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60610; (312) 335-1067 fax; cprcanary@aol.com . No calls please. Deadline: August 8, 2008

MDN is an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse staff. All personnel matters, including, but not limited to hiring, promotion, salary review and termination, shall be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, gender, pregnancy, disability, political affiliation or veteran status. MDN will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and any applicable state law.