Strategic Director, Democracy, Rights & Governance

Inside Philanthropy; Los Altos (CA); Hybrid; USD 300,000 - 315,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision coverage

Retirement match (15%)

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Vacation and sick leave

Adoption benefit

Fertility benefit

Financial wellness program

Volunteer time off

Matching gifts

Commuter benefits

Tuition assistance

Job summary

The David and Lucile Packard Foundation is seeking a Director for the Democracy, Rights, and Governance Initiative in Los Altos, CA. The role leads the strategy, oversees a grantmaking team, and drives collaboration across sectors to strengthen democratic governance and civil society.

Qualifications include 8–10 years in democracy-related work, an advanced degree, and proven leadership in complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Hybrid work and national travel are expected.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in democracy, rights, or governance spaces.
• Advanced degree in public policy, political science, or related field preferred.
• Strong leadership and partnership-building across ideologically diverse communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the evolution of the Democracy, Rights, and Governance Initiative and align with strategic goals.
• Oversee grantmaking portfolio, budget, and operations with the Program Officer and Program Associate.
• Foster strategic partnerships across nonprofit, public, academic, media, and private sectors.
• Develop and mentor a high-performing team and collaborate with Foundation leadership.
• Guide evidence-based decision making and allocate resources to maximize impact.

Skills

Democracy governance expertise

Strategic leadership

Grantmaking

Stakeholder management

Data-driven decision making

Policy analysis

Education

Advanced degree in public policy or political science

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The David and Lucile Packard Foundation is seeking a Director for the Democracy, Rights, and Governance Initiative in Los Altos, CA. The role leads the strategy, oversees a grantmaking team, and drives collaboration across sectors to strengthen democratic governance and civil society.

Qualifications include 8–10 years in democracy-related work, an advanced degree, and proven leadership in complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Hybrid work and national travel are expected.