Director of Government Affairs and Partnerships

Director of Government Affairs and Partnerships

The Education Trust-Midwest, located in Southeast Michigan, is a nonpartisan, data-driven education policy, research and advocacy organization focused on doing what is right for Michigan students. Working for the high academic achievement for all students, our goal is to close the gaps in opportunity and achievement for all students, particularly those who are Black, Latino or from low-income families.

The Director of Government Affairs and Partnerships will be responsible for developing and executing a government relations strategy, leading legislative advocacy efforts and building key partnerships with external organizations. Reporting to the executive director, the Director of Government Affairs and Partnerships will serve on the management team of The Education Trust-Midwest and play a leading role in advancing the mission of The Education Trust-Midwest by furthering our efforts to effectively advocate for educational equity and excellence through expanded partnerships, strong relationships with government leaders and influencers, and in collaboration with other leaders, increased community visibility and engagement.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of legislative engagement strategies focused on advancing organization priorities, in conjunction with the executive director and management team

• Build and maintain effective relationships with lawmakers, legislative staff and key external stakeholders

• Identify, develop and advance policy opportunities that serve the educational needs of underserved students, and proactively position the Education Trust-Midwest as a thought leader in the Michigan legislative and public education spaces

• Effectively collaborate with members of the Education Trust-Midwest management team and other internal staff members, as well as board members and other partners as needed

• Represent the organization publicly, including through drafting and contributing to public testimony, legislative and budget analysis, external presentations and other external documents

• Provide timely and accessible internal and external counsel and communications about policy developments, risks and opportunities

• Substantively contribute to organization-managed and external coalitions, in collaboration with the executive director and director of community outreach

• Meet required state reporting requirements for lobbying

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum of seven to ten years of legislative experience

• Demonstrated commitment to educational equity and the belief that all students can learn and achieve at high levels when provided with the tools, opportunities and supports

• Deep knowledge of education policy or a related field, as well as strong policy analysis skills

• Demonstrated experience in coalition-building and development and partnership development

• Strong written and verbal communications skills

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, government or a related field. Masters degree or JD preferred.

• Ability to work independently, on a team and cross-functionally

• A sense of humor and ability to work effectively with other leaders, internally and externally

Compensation:

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Apply here.