Senior Director for Applied Psychology

Representing the range of sub-disciplines in applied psychology outside of health service provision (e.g., industrial-organizational), the Senior Director for Applied Psychology works to elevate the public's understanding of, regard for, and use of psychology in applied contexts.

Representing the range of sub-disciplines in applied psychology outside of health service provision (e.g., industrial-organizational psychology,  human factors and engineering psychology, educational and applied developmental psychology, psychology and law, media psychology, environmental psychology, consulting psychology, sport and performance psychology), the Senior Director for Applied Psychology works to elevate the public's understanding of, regard for, and use of psychology in applied contexts. An advocate for applied psychology, the Senior Director for Applied Psychology collaborates with other disciplines, industry groups, and key decision makers where applied psychology interventions can address practical issues and improve the functioning of individuals, public and private institutions, organizations, systems, communities, and nations.

The Office of Applied Psychology was developed within the last 2 years at APA, and there is substantial opportunity to define and execute a broad mission to increase interest in and the impact of applied psychology sub-disciplines. The Senior Director for Applied Psychology works across the association with other APA operating units providing expertise on matters related to applied psychology to help applied-focused programs and initiatives advance the interests of the public, psychology, and psychologists, and to deliver value to members. Reflecting the scientist-practitioner model of applied psychology, the Senior Director for Applied Psychology leads the Office of Applied Psychology within the APA Science Directorate.

Education and Experience:

• This position requires a doctorate in psychology and a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in an area related to applied psychology. 
• Deep expertise in one or more domains of applied psychology (e.g., industrial-organizational psychology,  human factors and engineering psychology, educational and applied developmental psychology, psychology and law, media psychology, environmental psychology, consulting psychology, sport and performance psychology), plus an inclusive appreciation for the broad range of disciplines within applied psychology, in order to address the interests of a diverse group of internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong network with key partners, stakeholders and policy makers outside psychology in one or more of the contexts where applied psychologists practice (e.g., business and HR executives for applied psychologists working in organizational and work settings; legal professionals and criminal justice advocates for applied psychologists working in the justice system; educators and child development policymakers for applied psychologists working in child development and education). Outstanding influence and communication skills are necessary, as well as a strong ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders and cross-functional teams, and successfully navigate complex organizational politics.
• Experience with budget management and personnel supervision is required.

Academic experience is not required. Both applied psychology practitioners and applied psychology academicians are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

The Senior Director for Applied Psychology reports directly to the Chief Scientific Officer and works broadly within the association (e.g., with education, practice, and public interest staff).  The person in this position is responsible for providing leadership, direction, evaluation, and management for all activities related to the Office of Applied Psychology at the American Psychological Association. This includes:

• Developing and maintaining expertise and support programs in the Office of Applied Psychology to guide both internal and external processes regarding the improvement of organizational issues and change management.
• Designing and directing innovative efforts to educate key decision-makers, the general public, for profit and non-profit organizations, and APA members about the value of applied psychology across diverse settings. This includes collaborating with senior communications and advocacy staff with regard to the association’s public education and advocacy efforts, as well as with other senior Science Directorate staff on APA’s overarching science agenda.Designing and directing innovative efforts to engage and partner with key decision makers, policy makers, thought leaders, and allied scientific and professional organizations on topics of mutual interest and concern where applied psychology can contribute critical scientific perspectives. Actively initiating, developing, and maintaining a network of relationships and/or formal partnerships with leaders from other disciplines including industry and non-industry groups, and APA divisions that fosters collaboration and furthers APA’s applied psychology efforts.
• Developing collaborations with industry and government leaders to ensure psychological science is utilized at the highest levels of decision-making.  
• Serving as a spokesperson and author for the association for a broad range of topics in applied psychology, responding to media inquiries, and delivering keynote addresses and workshops for professional audiences.
• Serving as the primary point of contact for APA governance and advisory groups and internal cross-department workgroups related to applied psychology issues.
• Budget and staffing responsibility for multiple program areas, including special conferences and awards program.
• Making decisions regarding selection of contractors and vendors.
• Responsible for direct reports (director/manager-level staff) including the OAP Conference Manager and OAP Project Coordinator; trains, coaches, manages, and evaluates their performance.
• Other Duties as Assigned: The incumbent may be assigned other duties as directed by the Chief Science Officer.    

Location

The American Psychological Association, located at 750 First St NE, Washington D.C., was named a 2014 recipient of the Washington Post Top Workplace. It is metro accessible from the Red Line.  Remote work is possible.

Application Instructions

Qualified candidates must apply online through APA’s applicant system and attach a cover letter and resume specifying your salary requirements. Applications that are submitted without both documents are considered incomplete and will not be reviewed for consideration. Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. Please make sure to check your Spam folder if you do not receive an email from us.

The American Psychological Association is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected categories covered under local law.