Eric Sorensen for Illinois: Political Director

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JOB DESCRIPTION

The Political Director is a senior member of the Eric for Illinois campaign team responsible for developing and executing the political in-district strategy for an incumbent U.S. House member in a competitive district. This person will be the lead political staffer on the ground for Congressman Sorensen, and they will be responsible for short and long-term campaign infrastructure. They will manage the campaign’s relationships with party leaders, labor unions, advocacy groups, local stakeholders, and coalition partners to build and sustain support for the candidate. The ideal candidate is someone who prioritizes responsiveness, creativity, and is able to effectively lead a small but mighty team.

Key Responsibilities:

Staff Management & Volunteer Programs

● Lead staff hiring, onboarding, and training processes in coordination with the Chief of Staff.

● Manage campaign interns, develop an intern outreach program, and develop training and projects for campaign interns to participate in.

● Coordinate and manage volunteers, petition programs, and grassroots engagement efforts, meet and greets both in person and virtual.

● Responsible for drafting political memos, staffing events, and driving the principal to events.

● Support the finance team where needed, including staffing in district fundraisers, meetings, and check depositing.

Political Strategy Development and Relationship Management

● Work with the Chief of Staff to design and implement a political strategy aligned with the campaign’s overall goals.

● Identify and engage key political stakeholders and constituencies in the district.

● Cultivate and maintain relationships with local, state, party organizations, elected officials, unions, and key advocacy groups.

● Interface with constituents, from first-time hosts to seasoned friends of the campaign to ensure effective, responsive communication and well-built events.

● Serve as the primary point of contact for endorsements and coalition-building efforts.

Political & Coalition Engagement

● Design and execute a political plan that supports broad coalition-building within the district and nationally.

● Cultivate relationships with local leaders, elected officials, party infrastructure, unions, political organizations, and agriculture and rural interest groups.

● Lead endorsement outreach and management, including tracking, follow-ups, and completing questionnaires.

Qualifications:

● Preferred 1 – 3years of political experience, with at least one cycle working on a federal campaign.

● Strong understanding of the political landscape at the local, state, and federal levels

● Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders

● Exceptional communication and negotiation skills

● Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working in a fast-paced environment

● Familiarity with the district and its communities is a strong plus

● Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed