LOFT Fellowship (Leaders on the Fast Track)

LOFT Fellowship Overview

Mission: To invest in today's most talented campaign and public service leaders, expand their perspectives, deepen their experience, skills and community, and get them ready for what comes next.

Program Type: Full-time, one-year paid fellowship program

Location: Washington, D.C. (relocation required)

Launch Date: January 2025 (inaugural program)

Cohort Size: 25 fellows per year

Program Partners

• Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan
• Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business
• Corporate learning and development experts

Focus Areas

• Business coursework and skills development
• Campaign and public service leadership
• Real-world simulations and experience
• Networking and community building
• Executive coaching
• Strategic leadership and innovation

Target Participants

Senior leaders with at least 2 election cycles of experience on political campaigns or in public service roles (Capitol Hill, state government, etc.). Relevant prior roles include:

• Chief of Staff
• Campaign Manager
• Deputy Campaign Manager
• Ballot Initiative Director
• Caucus Director

Eligibility Requirements

• Experience: Senior leader with minimum 2 election cycles on political campaign or in public service role
• Career Intent: Desire to continue career in public service/political campaigns post-fellowship
• Mindset: Strong growth mindset, innovation-focused, interest in developing leadership and business skills
• Participation: Willingness to engage in dynamic discussions and collaborate
• Relocation: Ability and willingness to relocate to Washington, DC area for 12 months
• Vaccination: Must receive CDC-approved COVID-19 vaccination (or approved accommodation)

What's Included

• Top-notch business education curriculum
• Five-phase structured program (see application section for details)
• Summer private sector externship
• Capitol Hill internship
• Real-world simulations, intensive residencies, and capstone projects
• Guest speakers and subject-matter experts
• Individualized leadership and executive coaching
• Networking events with key industry players
• Certificate of completion
• Alumni community membership
• Monthly salary of $9,000

Non-Discrimination Policy

LOFT provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, hair texture, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Organization strongly encourages women, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and all qualified candidates to apply.

Application Process

The LOFT Fellowship application consists of three steps:

Step 1: Initial Application Submission

1. Complete the online application form at loftleaders.org/apply
2. Submit a current resume
3. Complete the application questionnaire

Step 2: Phone Interview

• Selected candidates will be invited for an initial phone interview with LOFT's recruiter
• Purpose: Review application and learn more about applicant's background

Step 3: Panel Interview & References

• Candidates with strongest applications will be invited to participate in panel interview with LOFT staff and advisors
• Provide letter of recommendation from at least one professional colleague
• May be asked to complete:
  • Additional writing assignments
  • Skills assessments
  • Additional references

Timeline & Deadlines (2025 Cohort - CLOSED)

• Early Action Deadline: September 25, 2024
• 2nd Round Deadline: October 20, 2024
• Final Application Deadline: November 15, 2024, 11:59 PM Pacific Time
• Decision Timeline: All candidates notified of application status (accepted, waitlisted, or declined) within 2 weeks following the application deadline for their round
• Note: Applications reviewed on rolling basis; no additional weight given to earlier submissions, but early application encouraged

Required Materials

• Current resume
• Completed application questionnaire
• Letter of recommendation from professional colleague (if selected for panel interview)
• Potentially additional writing assignments and skills assessments

Notes

• Applicants whose experience doesn't perfectly align with job description are encouraged to apply
• All questions should be directed to: careers@loftleaders.org