VP, State Gov. Relations
Leads multi-state advocacy efforts, directly managing a portfolio of states and overseeing contract lobbyists to advance organizational goals
Shapes state programs and influences key policy and regulatory issues, ensuring alignment with company objectives and strategic direction
Engages high-level government officials, providing expertise on policy matters, and regularly informs senior management about potential external impacts
About the Company
Graduation Alliance is a Benefit Corporation, a status obtained through a rigorous evaluation process by the non-profit entity B Lab. B Lab announced Graduation Alliance as one of the “Best for the World” in July 2021 for its focus on “services that support the greater good...focusing on underserved populations.” Practices evaluated and independently verified included “ethical marketing, data privacy and security, and use of feedback channels to add value to customers while supporting the greater good.”
Graduation Alliance is accredited by Cognia, which is also the accreditor for public schools across the US. In 2021, based on the review of Cognia’s trained evaluators, Cognia presented Graduation Alliance with an Index of Educational Quality of 375 (out of 400), compared to a Cognia Institution Network five-year average of 278–283. As a result, in 2021, Cognia named Graduation Alliance a School of Distinction for “effectively implementing high-quality instruction, showing consistent organizational effectiveness, and...demonstrating energetic and sustained commitment to learners.” This award is reserved for organizations that demonstrate excellence in meeting the Cognia Performance Standards as reviewed by independent evaluators.
About the Job
This position will have direct oversight for a portfolio of states in which Graduation Alliance operates. Though the team is extremely collaborative, this position will have ultimate authority and responsibility for strategy and execution of initiatives in said portfolio.
Responsibilities
Direct and manage multi-state advocacy agenda and contract lobbyists
Shape and influence state programs and other critical issues in alignment with organizational goals and objectives
Regularly engage high-level government officials providing an in-depth understanding of key policy and regulatory issues
Regularly apprise senior management of issues and other external factors that could affect strategic goals
Advise and collaborate on the development of policy related to company initiatives and areas of interest
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Minimum of four-year bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree or JD preferred
Minimum of 5 years of multi-state government affairs experience
Experience providing subject matter testimony required
Ability to meet the demands of a fast-paced work schedule
Required travel 40%
