Colorado Criminal Defense Bar Executive Director

Executive Director – Colorado Criminal Defense Bar The Colorado Criminal Defense Bar (CCDB) seeks a dynamic, highly motivated, and exceptionally organized leader to serve as its next Executive Director. CCDB is a thriving professional organization serving over 850 criminal defense professionals across Colorado and is one of the state’s leading criminal legal reform advocates. From helping abolish the death penalty in 2020 to successfully fighting for positive change and against harmful legislation year after year, CCDB is a respected and consequential voice on criminal justice policy in Colorado. Founded in 1979, the CCDB’s primary mission has been to abolish the death penalty. Today, the organization provides training and support to members, advocates for policy change at the Capitol, offers input on judicial appointments, and builds community through events, education, and advocacy. More information is available at www.ccdb.org. Position Overview • Position: Executive Director. • Type: Full-time. • Location: Based in metro Denver, CO, with flexible remote work and in-state travel. CCDB has a physical office and some in-person office time is required. • Salary Range: $80,000–$100,000, commensurate with experience. • Benefits: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, paid time off, and retirement contributions. • Start Date: October 1, 2025. Summary of Responsibilities The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of CCDB, responsible for overseeing the administration, programs, advocacy, membership, and strategic planning of the organization. The role reports to the Board of Directors and works closely with staff, volunteers, and key stakeholders. The ideal candidate is committed to a progressive vision of criminal defense and values the work of criminal defense professionals. This individual will represent CCDB, supporting its values and vision while fostering strong, collaborative partnerships with the Board, committees, regional chapters, members, and other organizations with mutual goals. The Executive Director will work to further CCDB’s mission, carry out CCDB’s strategic plan, and increase CCDB’s scope of outreach and influence. Candidates must be available for occasional evening and weekend work. Specific responsibilities include: Leadership & Strategic Planning • Express and advance CCDB’s mission and values. • Collaborate with the Board, committees, and members to implement the strategic plan. • Represent CCDB in public settings, media appearances, and policy coalitions. • Build coalitions with aligned organizations and social movements locally and nationally. • Foster a culture of mutual respect, transparency, diversity, and teamwork in the organization. Policy & Advocacy • Lead CCDB’s criminal justice policy efforts and supervise legislative strategy. • Hire and manage contract lobbyists and staff supporting advocacy goals. • Coordinate member engagement at the Capitol, including testimony and lobbying. • Communicate with legislators, the Governor’s office, and other state leaders. • Develop statewide grassroots strategies to advance CCDB’s reform priorities. Operations & Organizational Management • Supervise and support staff and contractors, including hiring and performance reviews. • Develop inclusion and diversity trainings across the organization. • Delegate tasks and maintain clear communication among members, committees, volunteers, and the Board. • Organize and schedule Board and committee meetings, events, and CLE programming. • Maintain official records and documentation. • Ensure information is up to date on the CCDB website. Membership & Community Engagement • Oversee membership recruitment, retention, and engagement. • Plan annual and periodic events, including fundraisers, awards ceremonies, and networking opportunities. • Maintain an active social media presence and lead communications campaigns. • Develop collaborative partnerships with organizations that share or support CCDB’s vision. • Ensure strong and effective community outreach and organizing efforts. • Distribute weekly electronic newsletters to the membership with case law summaries, upcoming events, and news. Finance & Fundraising • Manage CCDB’s budget and ensure compliance with financial regulations. • Prepare and oversee annual budgets and tax filings (Forms 990, 990-T, etc.). • Execute contracts and ensure fiscal responsibility for the organization. • Develop and diversify revenue streams, including membership dues, sponsorships, grants, and donor contributions. Qualifications Required • Demonstrated leadership and management experience, preferably in non-profit, legal, or advocacy settings. • Commitment to criminal defense and progressive criminal legal reform. • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. • Experience managing staff, budgets, and strategic initiatives. • Fundraising experience and financial oversight capabilities. • Practical knowledge of program management, marketing, public relations and social media. • Marketing orientation (ability to market and promote the organization). Preferred • Experience in or connection to the criminal defense community. • Experience with communications, media relations, or digital campaigns. • Familiarity with nonprofit governance and compliance. • J.D. is strongly preferred but not required. Application Process To apply, please submit: 1. A cover letter 2. Resume 3. 3–5 professional references Send your application to: ccdbapplication@gmail.com Subject line: "CCDB Executive Director Application" Deadline: July 31, 2025 Start Date: October 1, 2025 Individuals of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. CCDB is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination under federal, state, or local laws.