Principal Strategist, Giving Circles

Position:  Principal Strategist, Giving Circles 

Location:  Remote, with 25% of expected travel for in-person team meetings and events. 

Deadline to apply: August 19, 2025

Who We Are

The States Project (TSP) connects the importance of state legislatures to every aspect of our lives and brings together communities to help build a healthy, sustainable, and prosperous future for all. Our electoral work focuses on winning governing majorities in the states by making state legislative campaigns more effective and better funded. Our policy work provides nonpartisan tools and resources that connect a diverse community of state lawmakers committed to improving lives for the people they serve.  We do it because we believe that state legislatures are the strongest force for change in this country.

We encourage you to find out more about our values here.

Position Details

This is a full-time, exempt, at-will position that will work across The States Project and affiliated initiatives. The team currently operates remotely, with occasional in-person team retreats, etc. Some travel will be required. Additional evening and weekend hours are occasionally required to fulfill the duties of this position. 

The Opportunity

The Principal Strategist, Giving Circles will lead the strategic growth, engagement, and operational excellence of our giving circles initiative. This role is responsible for expanding the reach, diversity, and impact of our giving circles, fostering deep donor engagement, and integrating the program into broader organizational fundraising goals. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, relationship builder, and program innovator who is passionate about democratizing philanthropy and building community through collective giving.

What You Will Do 

Principal activities will include but not be limited to: 

Program Leadership & Strategy

-Develop and implement a multi-year strategic plan to grow and diversify the giving circles program.

-Set and track program goals, metrics, and benchmarks aligned with organizational priorities.

-Integrate giving circles into the entities’ overall development strategies.

Donor Engagement & Stewardship

-Cultivate relationships with giving circle members, leaders, and prospects to ensure a personalized and meaningful experience.

-Provide high-touch stewardship to deepen donor engagement, increase retention, and inspire increased giving.

-Support circle leaders and hosts with training, tools, and facilitation guidance.

Community Building & Facilitation

-Design and facilitate engaging, inclusive gatherings—both virtual and in-person—to foster connection, learning, and collective decision-making.Identify and uplift community voices, local leaders, and nonprofit partners to inform giving priorities.

-Build a culture of trust, transparency, and equity across all circles.

Operations & Program Management

-Maintain CRM records and ensure accurate donor tracking, engagement notes, and gift processing in coordination with the development team.

-Create program materials, toolkits, and communications to support circle operations and storytelling.

Collaboration & Representation

-Serve as a spokesperson for the giving circles program, representing the organization externally at events, in the media, and in partnerships.

-Collaborate with cross-functional teams including development, programs, and finance.

-Stay current on trends in collective giving and donor engagement to inform innovation and impact.

-QualificationsBachelors degree7+ years of experience 

-Capable of independently managing time and tasks associated with a fast-paced organization

-Clear communication skills 

Benefits:

The position offers a competitive benefits package. Benefits currently offered include 75% paid coverage of medical, dental, and vision for individuals and dependents, basic life insurance, an employee assistance program, unlimited PTO, 401(k) matching, annual professional development, wellness, and work-from-home stipends and paid family leave.

Compensation:

The salary for this position is $174,014 - $203,017 per year*. Salary offers are made based on the market rate and the candidate's demonstrated level of proficiency, experience, and credentials.

*The pay rate or range noted for this position is in compliance with the District of Columbia Wage Transparency Omnibus Amendment Act of 2023, NYC’s Pay Transparency Act, and other state and local laws.

TSP does not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. TSP values diversity and strongly encourages women, individuals with different ethnic and racial backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, abilities, religious beliefs, and military backgrounds to apply.

TSP complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Senior Director of People & Culture, Amy Fecteau at [email protected].

What You Can Expect During the Recruitment and Hiring Process:

All applicants will submit a resume and cover letter. Selected applicants will be moved forward to a phone screen. The next steps will include interviews with leadership.