Senior Director, Election Law Program (ELP)

William and Mary, United States

Updated: 2 days ago
Location: Williamsburg, VIRGINIA
Job Type: FullTime

Position Information
Position Information


Position Number FP489W
Position Title Senior Director, Election Law Program (ELP)
Employment Category Full Time Professional
Location William & Mary
Department 3N1000 Law School Faculty Operations
Unit Mission Statement
William & Mary Law School provides an exceptional education for tomorrow’s lawyers. As the nation’s first law school, we maintain an enduring tradition of intellectual and professional excellence. We improve legal systems here and abroad through a commitment to the classroom, influential scholarship, and service to the public. Our students become highly skilled advocates, ready to serve their clients and their communities with thoughtful engagement and unwavering integrity. We recognize the challenges of our history and our responsibility to pursue the realization of justice through the rule of law. Above all, we strive to be a diverse and close-knit community, inclusive in the broadest sense and defined by a shared commitment to the rigorous and open-minded study of the law.
Position Summary
The Election Law Program (ELP), a joint initiative of the William and Mary Law School and the National Center for State Courts, has a mission to provide resources for judges deciding election disputes. This vacancy is for an experienced attorney to serve in the role of Senior Director of the Election Law Program.
The Senior Director will be an attorney with experience in election law. Reporting to the ELP Co-Directors, the portfolio of responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:
  • Developing resources for judges deciding election cases;
  • Supporting projects that enhance understanding of federal and state election laws and the role of courts in resolving election disputes;
  • Sharing research findings and legal resources through a variety of mechanisms such as publications and educational programs (e.g., webinars, presentations, and conferences);
  • Overseeing ELP project implementation;
  • Identifying and capturing trends in election litigation;
  • Engaging in collaborative projects with trusted partners;
  • Supervising student research; and
  • Participating in fundraising efforts to support existing and future ELP initiatives as required.


NOTE: If interested, an opportunity for appointment as an adjunct professor to teach a relevant course within the field of election law is available.
Conditions of Employment
• This position is currently funded for five years and is eligible for full benefits. Extension of the position beyond five years will be subject to additional fundraising efforts. 
• This position may require additional hours beyond the typical work week, to include occasional overnight and weekend work as needed to meet the business needs of the operation.
Essential Designation No
FLSA Exempt
Position Restricted? Yes, the appointment is limited due to funding availability
Position Term 12 month - Continuing
Position Months
Required Qualifications
  • Juris Doctor (J.D.);
  • 5 or more years of legal experience after graduation from an accredited law school;
  • Experience in election-related work;
  • Strong legal writing, editing, and presentation skills;
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to function in a team and develop strong working relationships;
  • Demonstrated skill and competence in project management (e.g., organizing project work; managing deadlines; and assigning, overseeing, and completing projects);
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
  • Demonstrated experience exercising sound judgment and reasoned decision making; and
  • Ability to interpret and apply University policies and procedures.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with election litigation or election law cases;
  • Previous supervisory experience;
  • Experience mentoring students and/or peers;
  • Background or experience in the nonprofit space;
  • Experience with organizing or planning events, symposia, conferences or other public outreach events; and
  • Fundraising and grant writing experience.
Is the position remote work eligible? Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)
Remote Work Disclaimer
Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.
Advertised Pay Range $110,000 to $125,000, commensurate with experience.
Advertised Pay Range Statement
All hiring rates are commensurate with relevant experience up to the advertised amount considering internal alignment.
University Salary Range U15
Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none
Job Open Date 02/26/2024
Review Begin Date 03/11/2024
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Application Instructions
Background Check Statement
William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Similar Positions