Director of Government Affairs

ROLE: Director of Government Affairs

LOCATION:​ Washington, D.C., with approx 15% travel 

POSITION TYPE: Exempt, Full-time

START DATE: ASAP

ROLE OVERVIEW

Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) is seeking a transformative Director of Government Affairs as the organization scales into the future. Over the last few years, DFER has established itself as one of the premier research and advocacy organizations focused on investing in Democratic leaders who fight for policies that improve U.S. education and serve as champions for children in America’s public schools.

The successful candidate will be a key leader in the organization responsible for playing a major role in the development and execution of government affairs strategies to extend the organization’s reach and influence on Capitol Hill. This includes:

• Establishing and cultivating high-level relationships with a wide variety of political, and advocacy contacts in order to influence public, community, and government actions favorable to a student-centered agenda.

• Working closely with the Chief Program Officer, Democrat policymakers and staff, third party groups, think tanks, and other relevant stakeholders to advance the legislative goals of the organization.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States and will be required to submit proof of eligibility. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

WHO WE ARE 

Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) is a national political organization that supports elected Democrats and candidates for office who seek to expand policies and practices that work well for America’s students and confront those that do not. We are education progressives who prioritize students and families, especially low-income students and students of color who should be better served by our country’s public education system.   The New York chapter launched in 2008 with the goal of supporting Democrat policymakers in the state who promote excellence and equity in public education by legislating with a student-centered approach.

DFER partner Education Reform Now Advocacy (ERNA) is an advocacy group that advances education reform measures through empowering community leaders to support our legislative and political advocacy work. ERNA keeps constant pressure on legislators to champion high-quality public education. 

DFER partner Education Reform Now (ERN) is a nonpartisan think tank that promotes increased resources and innovative reforms in K-16 public education, particularly for students of color and students from low-income families. 

WHAT WE DO 

1. Support for Forward Thinking Education Leaders — In an approach that is markedly different from our peers and partners in the field, DFER engages directly with candidates and elected officials to empower them to advocate for education policies that focus foremost on serving students. Our partner organization, Education Reform Now, does work that involves policy research, analysis and education that helps policy makers at all levels understand complex education issues and make informed decisions. 

2. Informing the Education Debate — Our coalition work reflects the breadth of our policy priorities. We work collaboratively with organizations and our community networks to create an education system that is held accountable to all kids and families.

3. Targeted Interventions and Rapid Response — DFER’s reach from the most local district relationships to state and federal policymakers, enables us to respond quickly to the changing landscape and policy trends. Activities vary significantly from project to project and may include training, policy analysis, public engagement, electoral and issue advocacy, and policy guidance for elected officials and local advocates.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Engage directly with Democratic members of Congress and work with DFER’s program team to develop a federal advocacy strategy to help advance the organization’s mission.
• Design and oversee the execution of government relations strategies and programs at the federal level to ensure access to Democrat policy makers such that resulting government actions are aligned with DFER primary goals and objectives.
• Hold a variety of vendor/agency relationships. Direct the work of outside consultants.

Requirements

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Leadership experience- leadership experience within the non-profit education and/or government affairs  sectors; record of achieving ambitious results in these roles;
• Deep understanding of the Democratic Party- a deep understanding of the Democratic Party and strong personal relationships with key Democratic Members of Congress is required; 
• Advocacy expertise- a track record of innovative federal advocacy and successful coalition-building skills paired with the passion and desire to take part in scaling a rapidly growing organization is essential;
• Commitment to improving public schools- A deep understanding of education policy is preferred, and commitment to an equity agenda is essential. 
• Persuasive communication- The ability to persuasively communicate complex concepts, issues, and probable outcomes at the highest levels of government.

Benefits

COMPENSATION

The base salary range for this position is $125,000-$150,000.  DFER is proud to offer excellent 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).

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Democrats for Education Reform welcomes applications from all, and strongly encourages women, people of color, people with disabilities, immigrants, refugees & LGBTQ people to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization and recruiting a team that reflects the diversity of the students we serve.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply as soon as possible, even if you are not available to start immediately.  All applications are held in strict confidence. Interested applicants should apply here.  References will be requested in a later stage of the selection process.