Laura and John Arnold Foundation
Director of Public Accountability – Public Sector Innovation
The Laura and John Arnold Foundation (LJAF) is a private foundation committed to producing substantial, widespread, and lasting changes to society that will maximize opportunity and minimize injustice. To do this, our team identifies challenges and address root causes through innovative, bold, multi-disciplinary solutions. LJAF has offices in Houston and New York City.
The primary aim of the Public Accountability initiative area is to improve the efficiency and efficacy of the public sector. We promote transformational change that establishes greater accountability for the use of public funds through expanding the availability and usability of data, building the evidence base for social interventions, and systematically incorporating evidence in decision making.
Position:Director of Public Accountability – Public Sector Innovation
Salary Range: Based on qualifications, plus benefits
Office: Houston, Texas
Core Responsibilities:
The Director of Public Accountability will be responsible for developing, managing, and supporting activities in LJAF’s Public Accountability portfolio. This portfolio currently includes investments in the areas of public pension reform, social impact financing, low-cost and large-scale randomized controlled trials, evidence-based policy making, tax expenditures, economic mobility, and social service delivery. The Director will report to the Vice President of Public Accountability (VP). Responsibilities may include:
    Supporting the VP in designing, analyzing, executing, and updating the Public Accountability department’s charitable investment strategy
    Identifying, researching, and pursuing opportunities for policy action and charitable investment in public accountability
    Cultivating and maintaining relationships with key grantees, partner organizations, and policy makers
    Supporting the VP in managing grants and technical assistance projects and establishing performance and compliance metrics for grantees and consultants
    Writing and editing policy papers and other publications related to public accountability
    Supporting the VP and Director of Communications in developing a strategic communications plan for the Public Accountability department
    Collaborating with LJAF staff in other initiative areas to explore and develop cross-initiative charitable investment opportunities
Job Requirements
Essential Skills, Experience, and Abilities:
    Strategic, entrepreneurial approach to developing ideas and designing solutions
    Significant practical experience and/or advanced degree in economics, finance, public policy or related field
    Ability to grasp theoretical concepts, interpret quantitative research materials, and understand statistical methods used in social science research
    Ability to evaluate complex information and creatively find answers to policy questions
    Excellent written and oral communication skills
    Strong quantitative research skills and a solid understanding of statistical methods used in social science research – (preferred)
    Public policy, regulatory, and/or legislative experience – (preferred)
Desirable Personal Qualities:
    Entrepreneurial and creative
    Passionate about addressing social challenges
    Self-motivated and proactive
    Effective leadership skills
    Flexible and adaptable
    Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
    Ability to deal confidently with experts
    Enthusiastic and positive

NOTE: Never make payment to any employer, person, company, contractor or agency to get hired for a Job.

If interested in this position, please send a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to jobs@arnoldfoundation.org. In the subject line of the email, please indicate that the application is for the position of Director of Public Accountability.