Application Guide
How to Apply for Director, Program Strategy & Implementation
at Way to Win
🏢 About Way to Win
Way to Win is a unique multiracial donor collaborative that invests across c3, c4, PAC, and LLC entities to build long-term political power in states. Unlike traditional philanthropy, they focus on state-based ecosystems and movement-building, making them a critical player in strengthening democracy from the ground up.
About This Role
As Director of Program Strategy & Implementation, you'll lead the execution of priority programs and strategic projects, working across teams like Programs, Political Strategy, Communications, and Development. This role is impactful because you'll directly shape how resources and strategies translate into real political power in key states.
💡 A Day in the Life
Your day might start with a check-in with the Programs team to review project timelines, followed by a meeting with the Development team to align on grant reporting. Afternoon could involve a call with a state-based partner to troubleshoot implementation challenges, then drafting a cross-team memo on next quarter's priorities.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Way to Win Is Looking For
- Has 7+ years in advocacy, organizing, politics, philanthropy, or movement-building, with a focus on state-level or multi-state work.
- Excels at project management and cross-functional collaboration, able to align diverse teams toward common goals.
- Demonstrates strong writing and facilitation skills, capable of synthesizing complex strategies into clear plans.
- Thrives in a fast-paced, remote environment, managing multiple priorities with flexibility and accountability.
📝 Tips for Applying to Way to Win
Highlight specific experience with multi-entity structures (c3, c4, PAC) or donor collaboratives in your resume.
Showcase a concrete example of leading a cross-functional project that involved political strategy and community organizing.
In your cover letter, name a state or ecosystem you admire and explain how Way to Win's approach could strengthen it.
Tailor your resume to emphasize implementation and accountability systems, not just strategy development.
Research Way to Win's current grantees and mention one whose work aligns with your experience.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your ability to translate strategy into actionable plans with clear timelines and accountability.', 'Experience building relationships with movement leaders and stakeholders in diverse political contexts.', 'Understanding of the power dynamics between c3, c4, and PAC work and how they complement each other.', 'Passion for state-based power-building and multiracial democracy.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review Way to Win's website and annual report to understand their current grantmaking priorities and key states.
- → Look up recent press or blog posts about their c3, c4, and PAC strategies to see how they talk about impact.
- → Follow key staff on social media to understand their public perspectives on movement-building.
- → Research the political landscape in a state they heavily invest in (e.g., Michigan, Georgia) to understand challenges.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid focusing only on national politics; this role is deeply state-focused.
- Don't present yourself as a top-down strategist; emphasize collaboration and partnership.
- Avoid vagueness about your project management tools or methods; be specific about systems you've used (e.g., Asana, Trello).
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!