Job Description
Director of Government Relations
Basic Education Coalition (BEC)
ABOUT BEC
Founded in 2001, the Basic Education Coalition (BEC) is a group of leading U.S.-based organizations and academic institutions working together to promote global peace and prosperity through education. By leveraging our collective technical expertise and combining advocacy efforts, BEC members raise a unified voice to ensure U.S. policy makers support and strengthen access to quality education around the world.
JOB SUMMARY
The Director of Government Relations will advance the objectives of the Coalition and have principal responsibility for developing and executing the Coalition’s policy and advocacy strategies. The Director of Government Relations, under the supervision of BEC’s Board of Directors and in partnership with the Director of Outreach and Communications, leads the Coalition’s work in three main areas: (1) U.S. Government Policy and Advocacy; (2) Coalition Management; and (3) Coordination with Partners.
RESPONSIBILITIES
U.S. Government Policy and Advocacy
Plan, develop, and implement the Coalition’s advocacy strategy to cultivate champions and increase support for international basic education across Congress and the administration.
Coordinate and lead the Coalition’s annual appropriations advocacy strategy to secure U.S. funding for international basic education.
Advise and coordinate the Coalition’s advocacy and input on international basic education-related legislation, policy, and guidance documents, including by providing written and verbal analysis and feedback on policy proposals, building internal and external coalitions to advance key initiatives, and routinely sharing policy updates with Coalition Working Groups and Board members.
Convene regular consultations with Coalition members and the USAID Center for Education, as well as other stakeholders, on the implementation of international education programs, funding, and policy.
Clearly communicate Coalition policy positions and highlight member programs in BEC’s advocacy materials, including policy and issue briefs, Congressional testimony, talking points, in-person or virtual briefings for policymakers, and other communications materials.
Coalition Management
Share responsibilities with the Director of Outreach and Communications for management of a successful 501(c)3 organization, including shared management and administration of Coalition finances and operational responsibilities.
Help plan, organize, and lead Coalition events, including biannual Board meetings, Capitol Hill advocacy days for member organization staff, issue briefings, receptions, and other member engagement activities.
Coordination with Partners
Leverage the Coalition’s implementing expertise and technical Working Groups to inform policy recommendations with evidence and research.
Represent the Coalition at events and meetings held by the Coalition’s member organizations, Congress, the administration, and other relevant advocacy groups.
Develop and maintain relationships with other coalitions, issue-based advocacy organizations, government officials, and representatives of multilateral institutions to advance strategic policies and priorities.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Commitment to the Coalition’s mission: Promote expanded, equitable access to quality basic education so that all children have the chance to learn.
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
At least 5 to 8 years relevant policy, advocacy, or legislative work experience in related field, including:
Experience or knowledge of U.S. budget and appropriations process; and
Experience or knowledge of U.S. Government policy on international education and familiarity with key stakeholders.
Proven ability to design and implement policy and advocacy goals and strategies, including in coalition settings.
Motivation and willingness to take initiative, build and sustain a network of active members, explore opportunities for new partnerships, develop relationships across a diverse set of internal and external partners, and assume responsibility for executing activities.
Superior organizational skills and acute attention to detail; ability to solve problems, set priorities, meet deadlines, and handle a variety of responsibilities efficiently and effectively.
Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills, including comfort with public speaking.
REPORTING
The Basic Education Coalition is an independent 501(c)3 hosted by InterAction. This position will be based in Washington, D.C. and the incumbent will report to the Co-Chairs of the BEC Board of Directors.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The Basic Education Coalition provides competitive salaries and benefits through InterAction.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
There are no extraordinary physical requirements for the performance of the essential functions of this position. InterAction will make reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
TO APPLY
Please e-mail your resume, cover letter, and salary requirement to basiceducationcoalition@gmail.com with the subject line BEC: Director of Government Relations. The position will remain open until filled and candidates will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered for this position.
All applicants must be able to provide documentation that they are legally eligible to work in the United States for an extended period. Due to the volume of applications, only finalists will be notified.