Director of Economy and Trade Policy

Policy Department

Overall Responsibility:

The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) is seeking an accomplished Director of Economy and Trade Policy to lead the Institute’s efforts to shape and advance America First economic and trade initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in international trade and the broader economy, a strong commitment to U.S. prosperity and sovereignty, and the ability to develop strategic policies that promote American economic strength. The Director of Economy and Trade Policy will ensure that AFPI’s economic and trade research and educational efforts are rigorous, timely, and influential in shaping national and global discussions.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Develop and implement a strategic economy and trade policy agenda that strengthens American industries, protects American workers, and prioritizes national interests.
Conduct original research on economic and trade issues, including trade agreements, tariffs, supply chains, economic security, and U.S. competitiveness, ensuring alignment with America First principles.
Oversee the production of high-impact policy publications, including reports, policy briefs, and opinion pieces on key economic and trade issues.
Provide detailed analysis of current and proposed trade agreements, economic trends, and their implications for U.S. sovereignty and prosperity.
Collaborate with AFPI policy directors and executive leadership to integrate economy and trade priorities into broader policy initiatives.
Represent AFPI in public forums, media engagements, and policy discussions, educating audiences about economic and trade policies that benefit American workers, manufacturers, and farmers.
Manage the internal review process to ensure all economy- and trade-related research maintains the highest standards of integrity, relevance, and quality.
Serve as a resource for policymakers, staff, and stakeholders, providing expert consultation on economy and trade matters.
Support development efforts by contributing to grant proposals and donor communications related to economic and trade initiatives.
Monitor legislative, regulatory, and international developments impacting the U.S. economy and trade and recommend timely responses.

Consults With:
Research staff, policy experts, executive leadership, communications and development teams, federal policymakers, external partners, and stakeholders.

Type of Employment:
Full-time

Qualifications:

Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in international relations, economics, public policy, law, or a related field.
Minimum of 7–10 years of experience in economic and trade policy development, international economics, or related fields, preferably within a think tank, policy organization, government, or industry association.
Proven track record of influencing economic and trade policy or leading major initiatives.
Deep understanding of and commitment to policies that prioritize U.S. sovereignty and economic vitality.
Exceptional writing, editing, and analytical skills, with an ability to produce compelling and accessible policy content.
Strong organizational and project management abilities, capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in understanding trade and economic data, economic modeling, and regulatory analysis.
Excellent public speaking and media engagement skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex economic and trade issues to a broad audience.
Experience working with federal policymakers or within the federal legislative or regulatory process is highly desirable.
Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders in the policy and business communities.

Salaries for positions will be commensurate with the experience, expertise, and skills of the individual. Please send a cover letter, resume, salary requirement, writing samples, and references.

AFPI is a non-profit, non-partisan research institute offering competitive salaries and benefits to qualified candidates.

Back To Careers

Apply for this Job

Position: *

First Name *

Last Name *

Phone *

Email *

Zip *

Salary Expectation *

Resume: *

Cover Letter:

Writing Sample:

Yes, I would like to sign up for text notifications from America First Policy Institute.

Untitled

By providing your information, you become a member of America First Policy Institute and consent to receive emails. By checking the opt in box, you consent to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Text STOP to opt-out or HELP for help. SMS opt in will not be sold, rented, or shared. You can view our Privacy Policy and Mobile Terms of Service here.