Director, Policy and Advocacy

Summary:

Director, Policy and Advocacy - US School Assessment

Pearson is a global education company that helps people around the world make progress in their lives through learning. The Director, Policy and Advocacy will join the School Assessment extended leadership team and report directly to the SVP School Assessment Sales and Contract Management. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join our team as the Director of Policy and Advocacy for K12 School Assessment. This critical role will be responsible for leading policy and advocacy efforts at the state and district level to accelerate educational outcomes for all students. The Director will also oversee community and stakeholder engagement and establish partnerships with national, and state specific, advocacy organizations. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of education policy, a strong commitment to advancing equitable educational opportunities, and exceptional communication and leadership skills.

Location: Remote within the United States

Responsibilities:

• Policy Development and Advocacy:
• Develop and execute a comprehensive policy strategy at the state and district level to advance academic assessment practices and policies that support student success and equitable outcomes.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments related to K12 academic assessment and advocate for policies that promote DEI and educational equity.
• Collaborate with internal teams to provide policy guidance and support for product development and improvement.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership:
• Establish and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including state education agencies, district leaders, policymakers, educators, and community organizations, to gain support for the School Assessment’s mission and initiatives.
• Collaborate with advocacy organizations and community groups to build coalitions and alliances focused on advancing educational access, equity, and improved assessment practices.
• Represent Pearson in external meetings, conferences, and public forums to share expertise, build awareness, and influence policy discussions.
• Inclusion Leadership:
• Promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within School Assessment and in external engagements.
• Ensure that policy and advocacy efforts prioritize addressing disparities, closing achievement gaps, and supporting underrepresented student populations.
• Provide guidance and support to internal teams to embed DEI principles into assessment policies, practices, and products.
• Research and Analysis:
• Stay informed about the latest research, trends, and best practices in K12 assessment policy and advocacy, particularly related to DEI and educational equity.
• Conduct policy analysis and research to inform the School Assessment strategic direction and recommendations.
• Prepare reports, white papers, and other documents to communicate research findings and policy recommendations to internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• At least 10 years of experience in education policy and advocacy, preferably in K12 assessment or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in education policy development, legislative advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
• Deep understanding of issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to translate complex information into actionable policy recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to effectively present to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders and work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Knowledge of state and federal education policies and regulations.
• Passion for improving educational outcomes for all students and advancing equity in education.
• Good at influencing and networking both internally and externally.
• Innovative - Results oriented, able to follow plans through to their conclusion.
• High professional integrity.

Compensation at Pearson is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and specific location. As required by the Colorado, California, Washington State, New York State and New York City laws, the pay range for this position is as follows:

The minimum full-time salary range is between $130k - $160k.

This position is eligible to participate in an annual incentive program, and information on benefits offered is here.

What to expect from Pearson

Did you know Pearson is one of the 10 most innovative education companies of 2022?

At Pearson, we add life to a lifetime of learning so everyone can realize the life they imagine. We do this by creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are on a journey to be 100 percent digital to meet the changing needs of the global population by developing a new strategy with ambitious targets. To deliver on our strategic vision, we have five business divisions that are the foundation for the long-term growth of the company: Assessment & Qualifications, Virtual Learning, English Language Learning, Workforce Skills and Higher Education. Alongside these, we have our corporate divisions: Digital & Technology, Finance, Global Corporate Marketing & Communications, Human Resources, Legal, Strategy and Direct to Consumer. Learn more at We are Pearson.

We value the power of an inclusive culture and also a strong sense of belonging. We promote a culture where differences are embraced, opportunities are accessible, consideration and respect are the norm and all individuals are supported in reaching their full potential. Through our talent, we believe that diversity, equity and inclusion make us a more innovative and vibrant place to work. People are at the center, and we are committed to building a workplace where talent can learn, grow and thrive.

Pearson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We want a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other group protected by law. We strive for a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities.

To learn more about Pearson’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce, navigate to: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Pearson.

If you are an individual with a disability and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career site as a result of your disability, you may request reasonable accommodations by emailing ppsmhr@pearson.com.

Note that the information you provide will stay confidential and will be stored securely. It will not be seen by those involved in making decisions as part of the recruitment process.

Job: SALES

Organization: Assessment & Qualifications

Schedule: FULL\_TIME

Req ID: 12762

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