Executive Director, Brooks DC Programs

Executive Director, Brooks DC Programs

About the Cornell Jeb

E. Brooks School of Public Policy:

The Cornell Jeb

E. Brooks School of Public Policy brings together the university’s strengths in public policy, research, teaching, and engagement to address major global challenges. The school includes about 50 staff, more than 75 faculty, and additional part‑time practitioners, and enrolls over 700 students across programs in Ithaca, Washington, DC, and online.

About Brooks DC Programs

Brooks DC Programs provides immersive public policy learning and a supportive residential experience for three 45‑student cohorts each year. Each fall, first‑year students take a full course load enriched by DC‑based activities; each spring, upper‑division students from across Cornell complete coursework and a part‑time internship; and each summer, Cornell students live, study, and intern in DC for eight weeks.

Key Details

• Location:
  
  Washington, DC (regular visits to Ithaca campus)
• Pay range: $170,000 to $187,000

Strategic Planning & External Engagement (25%)

• Implement a strategic vision that strengthens Cornell’s presence and partnerships in Washington, DC
• Create and expand academic and experiential learning initiatives, including undergraduate, graduate, and pre‑college programs
• Build relationships with policymakers, federal agencies, think tanks, nonprofits, and alumni to support student learning and program visibility
• Support and host events that connect students, faculty, and policy practitioners

Academic & Student Experience Leadership (25%)

• Partner with academic leadership to plan and manage curriculum and course offerings
• Recruit, onboard, and support visiting faculty from government, research, and nonprofit sectors
• Ensure faculty follow Cornell academic policies and have the resources needed to teach effectively
• Work with Student Services to support the application process, internship placement, orientation, and community‑building activities
• Maintain strong relationships with university partners to ensure student safety and well‑being

Administration & Staff Management (25%)

• Lead and supervise the DC‑based staff team, fostering a collaborative and student‑centered culture
• Oversee budgeting, finance, facilities, and IT operations in coordination with Brooks School leadership
• Coordinate with Cornell IT and facilities teams to maintain a high‑quality learning and living environment

Teaching & Student Engagement (20%)

• Teach two courses per year for Brooks DC students
• Engage with students through instruction, advising, and participation in program events
• Model the integration of academic insight with practical policy experience

• Leaders with experience in government, policy research, nonprofit management, or higher education
• Professionals who balance strategic thinking with operational execution
• Strong communicators who build trust with students, faculty, and external partners
• Individuals who value teaching, mentorship, and experiential learning
• Collaborative managers who enjoy building programs and teams

The Executive Director will shape Cornell’s policy footprint in Washington, DC—connecting students to meaningful opportunities, strengthening partnerships across the policy community, and ensuring the Brooks School is a visible, substantive presence in the nation’s capital.

This role requires a master’s degree and 5–7 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination. The ideal candidate is an analytical, creative problem‑solver who exercises sound judgment and works both independently and as part of a high‑performing, collaborative team. Strong interpersonal skills, service orientation, and the ability to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders with cultural awareness are essential.

Cornell understands that different individuals have different needs and concerns regarding salary, benefits, and rewards. We offer a comprehensive and flexible rewards program to meet those needs.

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability, arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.