Director, National Programs

Summary

Join Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) as the Director, National Programs, leading the development and execution of a high-impact governor’s strategy to shape the national narrative around education reform. You will support the organization’s mission by engaging governors, gubernatorial candidates, and state leaders in advancing bold education reforms. Oversee program strategy, manage partnerships, and ensure successful execution of national advocacy campaigns. Lead efforts to engage governors and gubernatorial candidates, design and implement programs to support electoral engagement, and strengthen partnerships with coalitions and stakeholders. Provide strategic guidance and support to partners on advocacy and programmatic efforts. The position requires 7+ years of experience in political campaigns, advocacy, or government relations, with a focus on statewide initiatives.

Requirements

• 7+ years in political campaigns, advocacy, or government relations, with a focus on statewide initiatives and/or office
• Electoral advocacy: Experience engaging with political campaigns, candidates, and electoral programs to identify alignment with policy goals and build support for student-centered initiatives
• Stakeholder engagement: Strong existing relationships and demonstrated success in building and maintaining relationships with key policymakers, and coalitions to influence policy and legislative outcomes. Strong ability to form and lead coalitions to advance shared policy goals and expand influence at the federal level
• Strategic communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate policy priorities and advocacy strategies to diverse audiences. Ability to develop long-term strategies and translate them into actionable plans that achieve measurable outcomes
• Commitment to Equity: A demonstrated commitment to advancing educational equity and excellence for all students

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a national strategy to advance education reform in collaboration with governors, state policymakers, and coalition partners
• Oversee the design, execution, and evaluation of high impact programs that support state-level education reform efforts
• Develop policy strategies and provide technical assistance to governors, state policymakers, and coalition partners
• Develop a comprehensive program to build a pipeline of equity-driven leaders to engage in public service
• Identify and leverage opportunities to position the organization in key forums (conferences, panels, coalitions)
• Advise governors and legislators on best practices in education policy
• Lead and engage cross-state collaborations and national coalitions to amplify the organization’s impact
• Support Policy, Communications, and Development teams to expand the organization’s reach and bolster partnerships

Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental coverage
• Flexible spending plan
• Life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• 401K plan with a match plan
• Flexible spending/benefits plan
• Paid family leave
• Paid time off (vacation, sick time, floating holidays, and all National holidays)