Black Men Vote has appointed Michael Bland as its new executive director, the organization announced last week. Bland brings more than a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership and political strategy, with a focus on equity-centered policy, coalition-building and advocacy.

“We are confident that under his direction, Black Men Vote will reach new heights in empowering Black men to exercise their political power,” said Frank White, BMV co-founder and board chair

Bland most recently served as southern regional director and senior adviser for faith engagement for the Harris for President campaign. He also served as national director of Leaders of Color at Education Reform Now. His career

in political organizing includes managing Congresswoman Jahana Hayes’ historic campaign, making her the first African American woman to represent New England.

“We are at a critical inflection point when it comes to the role of Black men in American politics. For far too long, Black men have been left out of polling, focus groups and electoral mobilization efforts,” Bland said. “I’m beyond excited to help guide the direction of Black male voter engagement in a way that truly reaches and resonates with all Black men, both civically and electorally. There’s a lot of work ahead, but I’m ready to get it done.”

Bland, a University of Rhode Island graduate, will be based in Washington. He also serves on several nonprofit boards and is a member of the Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons.