The Computing Research Association (CRA), founded in 1972, is a non-profit organization based in Washington, DC. Our mission is to catalyze computing research by joining with industry, government, and academia. CRA executes this mission by leading the computing research community; informing policymakers and the public; and championing a diverse, welcoming, equitable, and socially responsible computing research community.

The Computing Research Association (CRA) is seeking a full-time Director of Research Community Initiatives to lead the Computing Community Consortium (CCC) and ensure that the CCC succeeds in its mission: to enable the pursuit of innovative, high-impact computing research that aligns with pressing national and global challenges.

This position will report to CRA’s Executive Director and CEO. The ideal candidate has experience facilitating programs and interacting with representatives from various branches of the Federal Government, understands the computing research ecosystem, is comfortable working with academic and industrial researchers, and has an interest in policy. This role is designed for a highly motivated and innovative person who will maintain comprehensive control of multiple projects and activities simultaneously and reliably push those to completion, can work independently and with significant autonomy, and can work collaboratively with staff and community members.  Abilities to effectively communicate, cultivate relationships with internal and external partners, hire/mentor staff, and manage activities are essential.  A willingness to engage and lead with members of the research ecosystem at all levels is a must.

The Director of Research Community Initiatives will envision and contribute to the execution of activities and coordinate all aspects, ensuring that operations proceed smoothly and effectively, and that programs meet all contractual obligations in a timely and high-quality fashion.

Responsibilities (not exhaustive) 

• Strategic Leadership and Guidance: Work with the CCC leadership to guide, plan, and execute new and existing activities and strategic programs for the community, including presenting products to the community and stakeholders. Facilitate and support engagement of all volunteers throughout the different activities.
• Program Management: Oversee all aspects of programs, including tracking and providing updates to stakeholders of all related activities, coordinating with the evaluation team, and leading external report creation. Plan and coordinate all aspects of professional meetings, workshops, and special events.  Help write proposals and reports, including development and management of budgets.
• Cultivate and Maintain Partnerships: Facilitate communication with and among external and internal constituencies, including federal agencies, academic partners, and external partner organizations engaged in synergistic activities to build further awareness for CCC and CRA activities. Identify and cultivate new partnerships.
• Organizational Leadership: Hire, manage, and evaluate staff, some dedicated to research initiatives and some working across CRA.  Be an active member of the CRA Leadership Team, guiding principles for the entire organization.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in computing or related area (required);
• Experience working with high-level, technical people (required);
• Demonstrated organizational and interpersonal skills (required);
• Evidence of leadership and problem-solving capabilities (required);
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff and community members (required);
• Comfortable serving in an advocacy role (required);
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills (required);
• Eligible to work in the United States (required);
• Willingness to travel (required);
• Experience working with the computing research community (preferred);
• Research experience in a technical discipline (preferred);
• Financial management and accounting experience in a non-profit environment; particularly experience with grant processes and procedures (preferred);
• Live in the D.C. metro area (preferred).

CRA offers an excellent benefits package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

To be considered for this position, interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume at this link and complete all fields.

Questions on the position can be emailed to employment@cra.org.