Vice President, Higher Education and Workforce Policy

Reports to: Executive Vice President, External Relations and Programs

Staff reporting to this position: Higher Education Policy team

Department: Education

Position classification: Exempt, full time; Nonunion - Level 9

Compensation range: $140,000–$168,000 per annum

Work site: On-site (Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

American Progress is seeking a Vice President of Higher Education and Workforce Policy to work toward generating pragmatic and progressive new policy ideas advancing higher education and workforce policy reform in the United States. Broadly, American Progress’ education policy work focuses on several priority areas, such as promoting college- and career-ready standards and assessments; recruiting, supporting, and retaining effective teachers and principals; improving fiscal equity; and exploring school improvement strategies, including expanded learning time and community schools, for high-poverty schools. The Vice President of Higher Education and Workforce Policy will lead a dynamic team to assist in deepening the organization’s education policy work.

Responsibilities:

• Provide day-to-day management for the Higher Education Policy team, which includes senior fellows, directors, research staff, and assistants.
• Develop new higher education and workforce policy ideas.
• Advance the Higher Education Policy team’s mission by raising funds and cultivating donor relationships.
• Work with policy teams—along with executive and other senior American Progress officials—to set the strategic direction of the Higher Education Policy team.
• Maintain relationships between the Higher Education Policy team and other American Progress teams, including the Executive, Government Affairs, Communications, Development, and Administrative teams.
• Represent American Progress’ Higher Education Policy team and promote policy priorities and work products with policy decision-makers, the public, media, and other outside groups and individuals as necessary.
• Assist team members in crafting and timing policy reports and rapid-response documents that maintain relevance to the higher education and workforce policy debate.
• Keep American Progress staff updated on news and events related to higher education and workforce policy debates in Congress and the administration; respond to requests for information from executive and other senior staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements and qualifications:

• Master’s degree or equivalent in training and experience.
• At least 10 years of professional experience in education policy or other relevant field.
• Experience managing a team and fundraising.
• Demonstrated excellence in research, writing, communication, and analysis.
• Demonstrated detailed knowledge and understanding of education policy, including federal education programs.
• Demonstrated ability to develop new policy ideas that promote educational opportunity and equity.
• Comfort with working under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work on a team.

American Progress offers a full and competitive benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.