Posted: July 12, 2011

Job Summary
The Executive Director of Policy is responsible for implementing strategic policy initiatives that will sustain and promote the RSD’s objectives while strengthening government and legislative relationships.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned.

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) the following:
• Coordinates and implements an annual legislative policy agenda.
• Manages a research and analysis staff focused on supporting network and overall agency goals.
• Represents the RSD as a liaison to BESE, the state legislature and other governmental agencies.
• Monitors and suggests appropriate action regarding all legislative items at the local, state, and federal level.
• Communicates with all stakeholders regarding RSD policy initiatives.
• Uses research to make informed, strategic policy recommendations to the RSD.
• Develops and sustains relationships with legislators and other government officials at the local and state level.
• Creates and edits letters, talking points, and other communication for government officials.
• Coordinates with all divisions of RSD central office to ensure that all policy decisions are in the best interests of the district’s schools and children.

Qualifications
The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications necessary to perform the job.

A. Education and Experience

Required:
• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree

Preferred:
• At least 3 years of work experience
• At least 1 year of work with a member of the local, state, or federal legislature

C. Other Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Required
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills.
• Up-to-date, comprehensive knowledge of major legislation regarding K-12 education.
• Demonstrated ability to create and draft legislative proposals and policies.
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize legislation for a designated audience.
• Experience researching and proposing policies regarding K-12 education.
• Experience working directly with local, state and/or federal legislators to develop legislation.
• Ability to use constructive planning, communication, and collaboration skills in all relationships.
• Consistently professional, diplomatic, tactful and respectful.
• Ability to strategically use legislative data to drive policy decisions.
• Exceptional project planning and management skills.
• Ability to coordinate and manage a variety of diverse and complex tasks and systems.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize a legislative calendar.
• Self-motivated to establish rapport with others and build strong relationships.
• Demonstrates genuine passion for RSD mission and strategic goals.

Requires flexibility and ability to work in a team environment.
Requires some nights and weekends.