About Public Policy Associates
Public Policy Associates (PPA) provides clients with the evaluation, research, and strategic consultation they need to make smart public policy decisions that improve lives, enrich communities, and strengthen institutions. PPA is a for-profit firm founded in 1991.
Our policy focus areas are education (early childhood, K-12, and postsecondary), healthy communities (food systems, housing, etc.), justice, and economic and workforce development. We work within Michigan and across the country. PPA uses a variety of methods and conducts a wide range of activities, such as: speaking with community members about their program experiences, examining federal and state datasets, conducting scans of policies across states, and translating research into actionable recommendations for organization leaders. Our clients include government agencies, nonprofits, associations, and others.
PPA blends serious work with a friendly, supportive work environment. We work hard because we know this work matters. We also recognize the importance of flexibility, fun, and comradery in bringing our best selves to the job. This includes respecting staff members as individuals and valuing their strengths, thoughts, and experience.
Position Description
PPA seeks a full-time, experienced project manager with a background in education or early childhood policy to coordinate and deliver on projects, contribute to business development, and help to further PPA’s strategic plan. The position involves:
Project Delivery (approximately 65% of position):
- Contributing major segments of study design for small and medium-sized projects.
- Planning and guiding collection and analysis of data using qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Conducting data collection and group facilitation as needed.
- Preparing monthly task assignments and hours projections for project teams, and managing team efforts to work plans and budgets.
- Creating and monitoring project budgets of varying sizes and durations.
- Synthesizing information from multiple data streams into written reports or report chapters and presentations.
- Summarizing findings and their significance, including strategies for policy change when appropriate.
- Upholding PPA quality standards for project methods and deliverables.
Business Development (approximately 20% of position):
- Identifying business opportunities, including concepts, RFPs, and add-ons to existing contracts.
- Coordinating development teams and writing winning proposals.
Administrative Activities (approximately 15% of position):
- Continuing to develop expertise in focus policy areas of PPA and professional practices.
- Leading special projects or select internal efforts as assigned.
- Participating in staff meetings and organizational development activities.
- Contributing to PPA visibility through publications, conference attendance and presentations, and news items.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a related discipline with four years of directly relevant experience and demonstrated capabilities in management
- Excellent data analysis, synthesis, writing, and oral communication skills
- Values collaboration, creativity, equity, excellence, and integrity
- Advanced knowledge of qualitative and/or quantitative data collection and analysis techniques
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365, Zoom, and analytical software (e.g., Stata, Nvivo)
- Ability to adapt and expand on existing policy knowledge and experience
- Ability to work productively without close supervision
- Shows good judgment in dealing with clients, coworkers, consultants, and vendors
- Can work on several projects simultaneously
- Effectively manages timelines and work processes
- Demonstrates strong organizational, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
This position does not have any staff supervision responsibilities. The position does, however, require adeptness at getting the best out of project teams within budget and scope.
This position reports to the CEO.
Location and Hours
Most PPA staff work remotely. Staff located in Michigan are expected in the office for the monthly staff forum days and quarterly staff in-service days. Employees who live in another state must come to Lansing twice per year (travel costs are reimbursed). Other travel may be required for projects. Work hours are flexible but must have some regularity to allow for collaboration. A work schedule will be set in coordination with the supervisor. Working more than 40 hours per week to meet project and business development obligations may be necessary.
Compensation and Benefits
PPA offers an annual salary commensurate with experience. Benefits for full-time, overtime-exempt staff include health insurance, 401k contributions, three weeks’ paid leave per year in addition to 10 paid holidays per year, professional development, and the opportunity to share in company profits.
Application
Applicants should submit a cover letter, the PPA application, a resume, and a writing sample of no more than 10 pages to office manager Jenny O’Neal at joneal@publicpolicy.com. The writing sample may be an excerpt of a longer paper. The position is targeted to begin in Fall 2023. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
PPA is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified individuals to apply.