• Lead the State Expansion Strategy • Own execution of Courier’s multi-state expansion plan (launch readiness, milestones, staffing coordination with Ops, and go-to-market sequencing). • Translate high-level goals into a cross-functional operating plan across growth, newsletters, social, partnerships, and operations. • Build systems that keep multiple states moving in lockstep (weekly check-ins, templates, playbooks, dashboards, launch retros). • Drive Strategic Partnerships & External Relations (Front-Facing) • Serve as the external point person for key aligned partners expansion states (state-based orgs, coalitions, advocacy groups, research partners, civic engagement orgs). • Identify, pitch, and structure partnership opportunities that unlock audience growth, distribution, revenue, and measurable impact. • Create partner integration workflows that align internal teams with external commitments (clear deliverables, timelines, handoffs, and accountability). • Navigate politically sensitive environments with discretion and strong judgment. • Represent Courier Publicly (External Affairs) • Represent Courier at state and national events and convenings, always aligned to strategic objectives and positioning. • Act as a connector: introduce department leads to relationships that support revenue, marketing, events, and growth goals. • Organize and execute relationship-building gatherings (e.g., political/media/advocacy meetups in DC and/or expansion states) to expand Courier’s network and partnership pipeline. • Track Performance, Communicate Progress, and Reduce Chaos • Define and report success metrics across expansion and initiatives: partnership outputs, revenue pipeline progress, launch readiness, distribution wins, and impact indicators. • Produce clear weekly updates for leadership and key partners; flag risks early with solutions attached. • Use data to iterate week-over-week