Executive Dir, Gvt Affairs, Education Policy, & External Rel

This position serves as the Executive Director of the Government Affairs, Education Policy, and External Relations unit, which involves the development and management of federal and state legislative strategy and operations for the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). This includes managing departmental relations elected officials at the federal, state, county, and municipal levels, with a focus on the Maryland State Legislature; working with offices across the Department to develop policy options and recommendations; leading the Department’s regulatory development and review process; managing relationships with key education advocacy organizations on behalf of the State Superintendent; and overseeing and coordinating special projects and initiatives for the State Superintendent. The position will include direct management of 1 to 2 analysts. Strong preference for candidates with: (1) a background in legislative strategy, process, and procedures; (2) experience in making, shaping, or implementing P12 education policy; and (3) either trusted relationships with a wide range of Maryland elected officials and their staffs, or a demonstrated ability to quickly develop and cultivate those relationships. The Executive Director reports to the State Superintendent of Schools and is a key member of the Department’s leadership team, deeply involved in both substantive and strategic decision making.