Executive Director Opportunity at the National Lawyers Guild-Deadline 31 May 2026

The National Lawyers Guild (NLG) is seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director (ED) to lead its National Office. This remote, full-time position offers a unique opportunity for a seasoned nonprofit leader to shape the direction of the nation’s oldest and largest progressive bar association. The role begins no earlier than June 1, 2026, with applications reviewed starting April 15, 2026.

About the National Lawyers Guild

Founded as the first racially integrated bar association in the United States, the NLG unites lawyers, law students, legal workers, and jailhouse lawyers to serve as a force for social justice. The organization emphasizes human rights, civil liberties, and environmental justice over property interests, supporting local, national, and international movements for liberation.

The Guild is member-supported and funded, operating through committees, caucuses, and projects that tackle interconnected social justice issues. Collaboration with allied organizations and grassroots movements is central to the Guild’s approach, ensuring accountability to communities and activists.

Key Responsibilities of the Executive Director

The ED will serve as the chief executive of the National Office, overseeing administrative, fiscal, and legal functions while supporting staff, the board, and membership. Key responsibilities include:

1. Fundraising & Development (25%)

• Cultivate relationships with members and major donors to increase financial support.
• Represent NLG at public and fundraising events.
• Serve on the board of the NLG Foundation, the organization’s 501(c)(3) arm.
• Write and submit grant applications and reports.

2. Political Leadership (20%)

• Work closely with the National Executive Committee (NEC) and Executive Council (EC) to identify and implement political priorities.
• Guide strategic partnerships and programs to amplify the Guild’s mission and impact.
• Represent NLG at coalition meetings and key organizational events.

3. Board Development (20%)

• Cultivate and support a strong, effective board.
• Co-lead bi-weekly EC meetings and quarterly NEC meetings.
• Participate in governance processes, including elections and priority committees.

4. Staff Development & Supervision (20%)

• Oversee and support unionized National Office staff.
• Supervise consultants and full-time employees across communications, membership, research, finance, operations, and mass defense programs.
• Foster staff growth, capacity, and engagement.

5. Financial Planning & Management (15%)

• Collaborate with the Treasurer, Finance Committee, and operations staff on budgeting, financial policies, and long-term asset management.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit best practices and risk management.

Desired Qualifications

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Five or more years of nonprofit or organizational leadership experience, including union management.
• Proven success in fundraising and development.
• Experience leading organizations through periods of growth or change.
• Strong collaboration and board engagement skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including diplomacy and clarity in large and small groups.
• Ability to build relationships and resolve conflicts effectively.
• A law degree and/or expertise in legal organizing for social justice movements is a plus.

Required Qualifications

The ED must demonstrate a strong commitment to NLG principles, including anti-racism, anti-imperialism, anti-capitalism, and anti-oppression, and serve as an exemplar for the organization’s values.

Work Environment

• This role is primarily remote but requires participation in virtual communications and occasional off-site events.
• Core office hours are 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM Eastern Time, with occasional evenings or weekends.
• Standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and webcams will be used routinely.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Fluency in English is required; additional language skills are beneficial.

Salary and Benefits

• Salary range: $100,000 – $110,000 per year.
• Benefits include employer-paid medical and dental coverage, 401(k) with match, paid family leave, disability and life insurance.
• Paid time off includes three personal days, seven fixed holidays, four floating holidays, 18 sick days, and 20 vacation days annually.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF document including:

• Letter of interest detailing motivation, relevant leadership or movement experience, and experience in key job functions.
• Resume.
• Three references.

Applications should be sent to jobs@nlg.org with the subject line: [Full Name] – NLG ED. Letters of interest will be evaluated for personal, political, and professional relevance rather than formal cover letter conventions. References will be contacted only in the final interview round.

The NLG encourages applications from people of color, trans and LGBTQ individuals, women, disabled persons, immigrants, formerly incarcerated individuals, and those with lived experiences of poverty.

Learn More

For additional information, visit nlg.org to explore the Guild’s work, values, and community impact.

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