About the job
ROLE: Senior Manager, Innovation and Choice
LOCATION: Remote or Hybrid (if within 60 miles of Providence, Rhode Island)
POSITION TYPE: Exempt, Full-time
TRAVEL REQUIREMENT: 5%
START DATE: ASAP
REPORTS TO: Vice President, K-12 Policy
ROLE OVERVIEW
Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) is on the lookout for a Senior Manager, Innovation and Choice to spearhead the development and implementation of a dynamic, high-impact agenda that aligns with the organization’s visionary policy framework focused on educational choice, accountability, and innovation.
In this pivotal role, you will concentrate on two essential areas: shaping the future of education through innovative approaches and enhancing family access to premier educational options. Key responsibilities include:
- Formulating state and federal policy initiatives that reinforce our dedication to progressive and inventive educational policies.
- Fostering partnerships with coalitions, advocacy groups, and stakeholders to amplify the organization’s outreach and effectiveness.
- Collaborating with implementation experts to develop actionable frameworks for policymakers.
- Supporting initiatives to engage governors, gubernatorial candidates, and state leaders in promoting transformative education reforms.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Policy Leadership and Strategy
- Drive a progressive policy agenda that promotes innovation and increases access to high-quality educational alternatives for families.
- Create persuasive federal and state policy proposals, legislative texts, and advocacy strategies that dismantle outdated barriers and endorse effective teaching and learning models.
- Collaborate with DFER’s state and national teams to ensure policy strategies are cohesive, actionable, and lead to substantial improvements for students.
Research, Insights, and Thought Leadership
- Generate influential research, reports, and briefs that bolster Democratic leadership in innovation and school choice.
- Conduct thorough analyses to identify policy deficiencies, spotlight system inefficiencies, and unveil effective solutions that enhance student outcomes.
- Transform emerging trends into timely recommendations and rapid-response insights for policymakers and advocates.
Advocacy and Influence
- Establish DFER as a preeminent national voice in expanding high-quality educational options and nurturing innovation.
- Provide guidance and support to congressional offices, governors, state legislators, and candidates as they advocate for forward-thinking education reforms.
- Build and maintain robust relationships with diverse education leaders, coalition partners, and community representatives to further shared goals.
Technical Assistance and Strategic Support
- Offer expert policy design and technical assistance to expedite the enactment and execution of effective legislation.

