Job Description: Deputy Research Director
Abigail Spanberger for Governor is seeking a Deputy Research Director. The Deputy will support the Research Director and help manage the day-to-day operations and needs of the Research department. They will take the lead on conducting long and short term research projects and help oversee the planning and execution of research projects and programs. They will play a critical role in helping the campaign develop effective narratives for earned and paid media. The Deputy Research Director will help manage other researchers, so candidates should seek to hone their management skills throughout the cycle.
This position will report to the Research Director and is based in Richmond, Virginia.
Job Responsibilities
- Collaborate with and support the Research Director to develop and execute research goals and projects for the campaign
- Conduct long and short-term research projects using public records, news clips, campaign finance reports, personal financial disclosures, and other sources for use by the communications team, senior staff, and consultants
- Develop rapid response documents on tight timelines with precision and attention to detail
- Help manage the research department and conduct the first round of edits of the work of research team members
- Aid in managing the campaign’s tracking program
- Write research backups for paid media and polling
- Contribute to content approvals to ensure the factual accuracy of all campaign communications
- Conduct and oversee the vetting of individuals and entities affiliated with the campaign
- Perform media monitoring of developments in the 2025 Governor’s race
- Provide additional support to the Research department as needed
- All other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- 1-2 cycles of opposition political research experience
- Experience with standard research bullet writing
- Prior experience conducting public records research, including experience with Lexis Nexis, public records, news coverage, and more
- Exceptional critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and organizational skills
- Exceptional writing and communication skills
- Ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure
- Willingness to manage up and down
Compensation:
$7,500/month, commensurate with experience. Health, vision, and dental insurance are included with Employee premiums covered 100% by Spanberger for Governor.
Spanberger for Governor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an environment that celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion. People of color, trans and gender non-conforming individuals, women, people with differing abilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.