Director of Special Initiatives

Cato Institute

. Lead the execution and expansion of signature Public Affairs engagement programs, including Cato’s Congressional Fellowship Program, Congressional Policy Summit, and other initiatives aligned with institutional priorities .

Posted 9/29/2026full-timeUnited StatesLead💰 $115,000 - $150,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in leading public affairs engagement programs and developing innovative outreach initiatives that foster meaningful interactions with policymakers and influential audiences. Proven ability to manage teams, coordinate cross-functional efforts, and evaluate program effectiveness in alignment with organizational goals.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Public Affairs EngagementGovernment AffairsEvent DevelopmentInterpersonal SkillsOral and Written Communication

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Soft Skills

Creative ThinkingStrong Work EthicPositive Attitude

Industry Keywords

Policymaking FunctionsCongressional Fellowship ProgramCongressional Policy SummitCato ScholarsPerformance MeasuresEvaluation Frameworks

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead the execution and expansion of signature Public Affairs engagement programs, including Cato’s Congressional Fellowship Program, Congressional Policy Summit, and other initiatives aligned with institutional priorities
Develop new engagement concepts, events, and programs that bring policymakers, congressional and state legislative staff, journalists, and other influential audiences into meaningful interaction with Cato scholars and research
Work closely with Government Affairs and Communication staff to ensure Cato-wide coordination of the Institute’s efforts
Lead cross-functional working groups to ensure the promotion of Cato publications and coordination of enterprise-wide campaigns
Develop goals, performance measures, and evaluation frameworks to assess the reach, effectiveness, and impact of major programs and initiatives
Manage the Special Initiatives team, providing strategic direction, oversight, and professional development to ensure effective execution of team priorities
Report to the Vice President for Public Affairs

Requirements

What you’ll need

7 to 10 years’ experience working in an external outreach position, such as public affairs, government affairs, or communications
Working knowledge of policymaking functions within state and federal governments
Innovative, creative thinking with knowledge of how to create events of various sizes and target audiences
A demonstrated appreciation for Cato’s mission and principles
Excellent interpersonal skills and an outgoing personality
Strong oral and written communication skills
Strong work ethic with an enthusiastic, positive attitude
CV/Resume
Cover Letter
Salary requirements

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
Generous vacation and sick leave
Paid parental leave
Employer-provided life and disability insurance
401(k) with employer match
Transit/Parking benefits
Pet discount plan