Application Guide

How to Apply for Deputy Director of Programs

at Autistic Self Advocacy Network

🏢 About Autistic Self Advocacy Network

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) is a unique disability rights organization run by and for autistic adults, ensuring that policy decisions are shaped by those directly affected. Working here means joining a grassroots movement that prioritizes self-advocacy and neurodiversity, making it a mission-driven environment where your work directly impacts the autistic community.

About This Role

As Deputy Director of Programs, you will oversee ASAN's core programmatic and grassroots initiatives, supervising three key managers to ensure cohesive operations. This role is impactful because you'll coordinate events like the Disability Day of Mourning, manage affiliate networks, and drive fundraising campaigns—all while fostering a culture of autistic leadership and inclusion.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a check-in with your direct reports via video call, reviewing progress on upcoming events like the Disability Day of Mourning. You could then draft a grant proposal, respond to affiliate group inquiries, and end the day by planning the next grassroots training session. Throughout, you'll collaborate across teams to ensure autistic voices guide every program.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Autistic Self Advocacy Network Is Looking For

  • Has at least 3 years of people management experience, with a track record of developing direct reports and fostering inclusive team cultures.
  • Demonstrates 5+ years of project management expertise, successfully juggling multiple complex projects with competing deadlines.
  • Deeply understands disability rights, self-advocacy movements, and neurodiversity principles, ideally with lived experience as an autistic person.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Apps, and comfortable using digital tools for remote coordination.

📝 Tips for Applying to Autistic Self Advocacy Network

1

Highlight your experience managing remote teams, as this role is fully remote and requires strong virtual collaboration skills.

2

Explicitly connect your past work to autistic-led initiatives or disability justice frameworks—ASAN values alignment with its mission.

3

In your resume, quantify your impact in previous roles (e.g., 'Supervised a team of 3 that increased community engagement by 40%').

4

Tailor your cover letter to mention specific ASAN programs (e.g., Disability Day of Mourning) and how your skills can enhance them.

5

Proofread carefully for ableist language—use person-first or identity-first language as preferred by the autistic community.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your personal or professional connection to the autistic community and self-advocacy movement.', 'Detail your supervisory style and how you support professional growth in direct reports.', 'Showcase your ability to coordinate multiple programs simultaneously, giving concrete examples from past roles.', "Express enthusiasm for ASAN's mission and mention specific programs you're excited to oversee."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review ASAN's website and recent policy statements to understand their current advocacy priorities.
  • → Learn about the Disability Day of Mourning and the Teighlor McGee Minigrant program to show initiative.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the neurodiversity movement and key figures in autistic self-advocacy.
  • → Read ASAN's annual reports and blog to grasp their organizational culture and recent achievements.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you build trust and collaboration among a remote team of managers with diverse responsibilities?
2 Can you describe a time you managed a complex event or program with multiple stakeholders?
3 What does authentic inclusion of autistic voices look like in program development?
4 How do you handle conflicts between organizational priorities and grassroots community needs?
5 Describe your experience with fundraising campaigns or grant management in a nonprofit setting.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using generic nonprofit language without connecting to disability rights or autistic leadership.
  • Overemphasizing 'fixing' or 'helping' autistic people—ASAN focuses on empowerment and self-determination.
  • Failing to address the remote nature of the role or how you'll manage a distributed team effectively.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Autistic Self Advocacy Network!

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