The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida (ACLU of Florida) invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the newly created position of Deputy Executive Director and Strategy Officer (DEDSO).

This inaugural leadership role will provide high-level strategic support to Executive Director Bacardi Jackson, who has led the organization since May 2024. This is an accelerated search with the goal of the new DEDSO assuming the role in the first quarter of 2026. This role offers significant flexibility, with options for remote work anywhere in Florida or a hybrid model based out of the Miami or Tallahassee office.

Chartered in 1965, the ACLU of Florida is a dynamic, nonpartisan advocacy organization and one of 54 affiliates of the national American Civil Liberties Union. With more than 60,000 members and an $8.8 million budget, its pivotal work is carried out by 39 full-time staff members as well as fellows, interns, externs, and cooperating attorneys. The ACLU of Florida is supported entirely by private donations, foundation grants, court-awarded legal fees, and membership dues, receiving no government funding.

Serving as a strategic advisor and trusted partner to the Executive Director, the DEDSO provides essential executive leadership and management oversight. As a force multiplier and strategic hub for the affiliate, the DEDSO ensures the seamless implementation of the organization's vision.

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the DEDSO's core responsibilities include:

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Drives the full strategic planning lifecycle and champions the organization's strategic vision in concert with the Executive Director, staff, and board members.
• Operational Excellence: Directs Executive Department operations and internal workflows to ensure cross-functional cohesion, streamlined processes, and the delivery of high-impact organizational outcomes.
• Executive Effectiveness: Acts as a strategic advisor and surrogate for the Executive Director; amplifies leadership capacity by overseeing high-level projects and representing the Executive Director in critical decision-making forums and various settings.
• Governance & Affiliate Relations: Serves as a key liaison to the governing board, national office, and other affiliates, cultivating strong relationships and ensuring effective communication.

Salary Range: $160,000 to $180,000

Qualifications

The ACLU of Florida seeks an exceptional individual for this inaugural role—someone with the passion, skills, and experience necessary to shape and thrive in this critical position. Requirements include a bachelor's degree and seven years of management experience, preferably with a track record of increasing leadership or strategic operating responsibility and accomplishment. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience from any sector—including non-profit, campaigns, government, or for-profit—is also welcome. An advanced degree is preferred.

The complete position specification, including a full list of the qualifications and characteristics sought in the ideal candidate, can be found here. The search committee actively encourages applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and professional pathways who are passionate about the organization's mission and confident in their capacity to succeed in this role.

Application and Nomination

The ACLU of Florida has exclusively retained Spelman Johnson, a national executive search firm, as its partner in the search for a new Deputy Executive Director and Strategy Officer.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; interested individuals are therefore encouraged to apply early. Strong applicants will be evaluated and interviewed as their materials are received, and a highly qualified candidate may be selected at any time. For optimal consideration, please apply by January 16, 2026. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/deputy-executive-director-and-strategy-officer/.

This search will be fully confidential, with no announcement of finalist names. References will be contacted only after the initial round of interviews and only with the candidate's prior knowledge and approval.

· Contact Jim Norfleet at jmn@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries.
· Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.

Visit the ACLU of Florida website at www.aclufl.org.

The ACLU of Florida is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The ACLU of Florida encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

This announcement provides a descriptive but not exhaustive list of the essential responsibilities and qualifications required. It does not represent a contract of employment. The ACLU of Florida reserves the right to change the job description and/or posting at any time without advance notice. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.





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