Arena Careers

Description

P68 Research and Messaging Manager Job Description

Who We Are

Project 68 (P68) is a culture-first civic organization focused on increasing civic participation by organizing cultural moments that engage politically disengaged and rightfully cynical Black audiences, particularly Gen Z and Millennials.

Operating at the intersection of culture and civic life, P68 reimagines how civic information reaches, resonates with, and activates our communities. We were founded to close the gap between culture and politics, making civic engagement feel real, relevant, and rooted in shared experience.

By working alongside state and local infrastructures, creators, and cultural influencers, we bring stories and strategies to life through innovative, culturally grounded programming that moves people from awareness to action. Our work is centered on inclusivity and driven by a belief that democracy should reflect the values, voices, and lived experiences of the communities we serve.

Position Overview

The Research and Messaging Manager (RMM) is responsible for shaping, testing, and refining P68’s narrative strategy across all cultural and civic initiatives. This role bridges the gap between research and storytelling, translating data, insights, and cultural sentiment into clear, resonant information that is digestible for news-avoidant or disengaged audiences. In addition to conducting research, the RMM remains informed on current events and rapid-response opportunities.

The RMM will lead research and message development, manage partnerships with research firms and narrative coalitions, and collaborate with creative and program teams to ensure all content, campaigns, and partnerships reflect a cohesive, data-driven strategy.

The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of political communications, narrative strategy, and research design and can turn insights into creative, culturally grounded communications, including briefings, short memos, and talking points that resonate with Black, youth, and underrepresented audiences.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and one short writing sample detailing their qualifications and relevant experience to [email protected].

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Please reference Program Director – [Your Name] in the subject line.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $90,000–$130,000 annually (commensurate with experience).
Benefits: Health, life, and disability insurance; paid time off; and a flexible work environment.
Employment Type: Permanent, with retention based on performance.

P68 is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

Requirements

What This Work Looks Like

Core Responsibilities

Program Strategy & Execution
Work alongside the Executive Director to develop P68’s programmatic initiatives.
Lead the implementation, execution, and evaluation of P68’s programmatic initiatives.
Manage program teams and contractors
Identify opportunities to merge cultural and political spaces through innovative, community-centered programming.
Oversee the planning, logistics, and execution of program events and activations.
Manage program timelines and deliverables to ensure high-quality execution.
Utilize data, community feedback, and partner insights to refine programming and measure impact.
2. Partner & Stakeholder Engagement

Build and maintain relationships with grassroots organizations, cultural influencers, and state/local partners.
Collaborate with external partners to co-create programming and campaign activations.
Represent P68 at meetings, events, and coalition spaces relevant to programmatic work.
3. Team & Contractor Management

Supervise program contractors, volunteers, and interns, ensuring clarity of roles and accountability.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive work environment that encourages creativity and innovation.
Manage onboarding and ongoing support for new program-related hires or contractors.
4. Fundraising & Reporting Support

Collaborate with the Executive Director in program development for grant proposals and funding opportunities.
Provide program impact data, success stories, and deliverables for funder reports and partner updates.
Contribute to presentations, decks, and narratives that showcase program results.

Qualifications & Experience

The ideal candidate will possess:

5+ years of experience in program development, political organizing, media/cultural engagement, or nonprofit program leadership.
Strong understanding of civic engagement, voter mobilization, and cultural influence.
Demonstrat ability to design and lead successful programs with measurable outcomes.
Proven track record of building and managing partnerships with influencers, community organizations, and advocacy groups.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Experience managing budgets and evaluating program performance.
Comfortable in a start-up or small team environment, willing to adapt and innovate.

Working Environment

Remote position – occasional travel is required.
Schedule Flexibility - Ability to work nights and weekends as needed to support program execution and engagement efforts.
40+ hours per week – flexibility required based on program needs.
Collaboration – regularly communicates with team members and external partners.

Skills & Attributes Expected of All P68 Employees

Acute attention to detail and planning
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects effectively.
Strong ability to write clearly, concisely, and logically.
Experience working in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
Problem-solving mindset with a proactive approach.
Commitment to inclusivity and cultural competence.
Ability to collaborate effectively with a team mentality and seek diverse perspectives.
Comfort with feedback and a continuous learning mindset.