Title: Policy and Research Manager for Water-Related Economic Development
Type: full-time
Location: Chicago-based employee with both in-person (office location is 200 W Madison St., Chicago IL 60606 through May 2026; thereafter 111 N. Canal) and virtual work is required. You must be able to work in the United States, as Current does not yet have visa-sponsoring capabilities.
Position Summary: Current’s Policy and Research Manager is a cross-functional team member responsible for the development and execution of Current’s policy and engagement agenda. This is a new role that needs an ambitious and creative team player to investigate policy areas relevant to Current and Great Lakes RENEW’s strategic goals, leverage partnerships and coalitions to develop policy perspectives, and create actionable, results-oriented strategies to advance policy areas. This role is not currently scoped as a lobbying role, but may evolve in the future to include lobbying activities. Applicants do not need to be a registered lobbyist but may need to in the future. The Policy and Research Manager is a strong communicator and is passionate about helping Current impact systems that enable economic development, innovation, sustainability and circularity. The Policy and Research Manager regularly interfaces with internal and external stakeholders, and will serve as a representative of Current amongst our community of mission-aligned practitioners, policymakers, and supporters.
● Bachelor’s degree plus 5 years of experience working in a policy-related field.
● Experience in water-related policy areas preferred, but not required. Candidates
with experience in other environmental or economic development campaigns or
policy areas can also be successful.
● A deep understanding of policy work and legislative processes required.
● Established networks and relationships with policymakers, governments,
coalitions and nonprofits in at least some part of our region of service preferred
(IL, WI, OH, MN, MI, IN).
● Excellent written and communication skills, and the ability to translate complex
topics to generalist audiences.
● A track record of strong facilitation and public speaking skills, and a
demonstrated ability to engage and activate coalitions.
To apply: Please complete our online application in the link shared below. Do not forget to upload your CV/resume!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSez6o6PmZHAVwldIpIMLo3bNLCtMze7pTwRQGwrP9FJyXGBZQ/viewform
For more information regarding the position, please see the link below:
https://drive.google.com/file/