Zach Wahls for US Senate: Finance Director

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JOB DESCRIPTION

About the Campaign and Candidate

Zach Wahls is an Iowa State Senator, nationally recognized advocate, and Democratic candidate for US Senate in Iowa running to unseat two-term incumbent Senator Joni Ernst in 2026. As the former Senate Minority Leader, Zach is a respected legislator and leading voice in Iowa politics. Our campaign is committed to bringing Iowa values back to Washington, focusing on policies that benefit working families, strengthen rural communities, and restore accountable leadership to the U.S. Senate. We're building an innovative, energetic campaign that engages voters across all 99 counties and showcases Zach's unique ability to connect with Iowans from all walks of life while centering his passion for service and his dedication to reform. The stakes in this race could not be higher — if this campaign is successful, it is likely that this seat will determine control of the United States Senate in 2027.

Position Overview

We seek a dedicated, experienced, and results-driven Finance Director to lead all aspects of campaign fundraising operations. The Finance Director will report directly to the Campaign Manager and work closely with the candidate to develop and execute fundraising strategies capable of powering an eight-figure campaign budget. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, fundraising acumen, and the ability to develop and sustain meaningful relationships with donors and stakeholders across Iowa and nationally.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan with clear monthly and quarterly goals for major donor outreach, grassroots fundraising, digital fundraising initiatives, and events

• Lead day-to-day finance operations, including tracking donations, managing databases, and ensuring accurate financial reporting

• Identify, cultivate, and maintain relationships with major donors, bundlers, PACs, and fundraising committees

• Organize, plan, and execute fundraising events, including in-person and virtual fundraisers, receptions, and meet-and-greet opportunities

• Collaborate closely with the Campaign Manager, consultants, and candidate to set and achieve ambitious fundraising goals

• Oversee campaign compliance, ensuring timely and accurate financial disclosures and adherence to all FEC regulations

• Train and manage finance staff and interns, providing guidance, support, and fostering professional development

• Coordinate and execute the candidate's call-time program, preparing briefings, donor lists, and tracking outcomes for 30+ hours weekly

• Analyze fundraising data to identify trends, refine strategies, and maximize fundraising efficiency

• Build and maintain relationships with national fundraising networks and stakeholder organizations

Qualifications

• 3+ years of campaign finance experience with at least one cycle as a Finance Director or Deputy Finance Director on a competitive statewide, congressional, or gubernatorial race; competitive senate experience is strongly preferred

• Demonstrated track record of meeting or exceeding ambitious fundraising targets of $1M+ per quarter

• Expertise in donor cultivation, major donor solicitation, and event management

• Strong familiarity with FEC compliance, including reporting requirements for federal elections

• Experience managing call time and preparing call time materials that maximize efficiency

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of engaging effectively with diverse donors and stakeholders

• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment

• Proficiency with fundraising software and databases (NGP, ActBlue)

• Knowledge of Iowa's political and fundraising landscape preferred

• Experience with direct mail and digital fundraising strategies

• Commitment to a collaborative approach that integrates fundraising with the campaign's values of authenticity, hard work, respect, empowerment, and inclusion