The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, and where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

EOE Policy Manager

The Executive Office of Education (EOE) seeks a dynamic and detail-oriented professional to serve as Policy Manager (Program Manager VI) to advance the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s ambitious education agenda for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The selected candidate will work in the fast-paced office of the Secretary of Education and provide critical policy support to the Secretary and the senior leadership team. The Policy Manager will conduct research, analyze information, and collaborate with the senior team to help formulate and implement a wide range of education policy initiatives. The selected candidate will report to the Undersecretary & Chief of Staff and will collaborate with policy, legislative affairs, fiscal, legal, and communications staff at EOE and its agencies—the Department of Early Education and Care, Children’s Trust, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the Department of Higher Education.

The Policy Manager serves as a liaison between all agencies within the Executive Office of Education and therefore must have superior communication and organizational skills and the ability to work on many projects simultaneously. This position also requires a great deal of policy expertise, understanding of state education policy implementation, and familiarity or ability to learn about other state practices, all of which require strong content knowledge, research skills, and determination. The Policy Manager must work with the Secretary, senior staff, and agency staff tactfully and collaboratively.

The Policy Manager will work in a hybrid work model, with two days per week in person at the EOE offices in Boston. Occasional travel within Massachusetts may be required.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research and analyze diverse education policy issues in collaboration with senior leadership to formulate informed policy recommendations for the Secretary of Education.
• Project manage assigned policy initiatives under the guidance of the Undersecretary & Chief of Staff and other senior leaders, ensuring effective collaboration with legislative affairs, fiscal, legal, communications, and other policy staff at EOE and its agencies.
• Craft clear, concise, and compelling briefing documents, presentations, and materials for the Secretary and senior leaders.
• Employ intentional and consistent cross-agency collaboration practices to ensure coordinated and comprehensive policy development and implementation, fostering an environment of cohesive teamwork throughout the secretariat.
• Function as a liaison to various external stakeholders and local, state, and federal agencies to exchange education policy information and coordinate with EOE agencies to ensure that external communications, including constituency requests, are responded to in an appropriate and timely manner.

Please Direct Questions to Tonya.Williams3@mass.gov

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the office’s goals, objectives, and programs in the education agencies
• Knowledge of the organization of state government and education agencies
• Strong communication skills, both in public speaking and in writing
• Ability to develop and implement new policies and procedures to achieve agency goals and objectives
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Adherence to EOE’s core values: Advance Equity & Inclusion, Maintain a Holistic Perspective, Embrace Collaboration, Champion Innovation, Center Fulfillment
• Policymaking experience, ideally in education, or education program management experience.
• Ability to coordinate the efforts of others in accomplishing assigned work objectives.
• Ability to understand, apply, and interpret the provisions of the laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing the Executive Office and its operation.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships and deal tactfully with others.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!