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Executive Director of Government Affairs

Director, Department of Education

Recruitment #25-005054-0003

Introduction

The Maryland State Department of Education is dedicated to supporting a world-class educational system that prepares all students for college and career success in the 21st century. With excellent stewardship from our divisions, we oversee State and federal programs that support the needs of a diverse population – students, teachers, principals, and other educators throughout Maryland.

GRADE

Grade 25

LOCATION OF POSITION

Maryland State Department of Education
200 W. Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201

POSITION DUTIES

This position serves as the Executive Director of the Office of Government Affairs, which involves the development and management of state and federal legislative strategy and operations for the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). This includes managing departmental relations with elected officials at the federal, state, county, and municipal levels, with a focus on the Maryland General Assembly; working with offices across the Department to develop policy options and recommendations; leading the Department’s regulatory development and review process; and managing relationships with key education advocacy organizations on behalf of the State Superintendent.

Position Duties Include: 

  • Developing and implementing the agency's legislative strategy at the federal, State, and local levels, with a focus on the Maryland General Assembly Leading the development of annual legislative priorities in coordination with the State Superintendent and State Board to ensure alignment with agency goals and policy objectives 
  • Developing and reviewing MSDE testimony, legislative language, and feedback on legislative proposals 
  • Coordinating the timely submission of required agency reports that are high-quality and responsive 
  • Supporting agency staff at all levels and across divisions in the development of laws, regulations, State Board resolutions, State Superintendent guidance, and grant priorities 
  • Maintaining a comprehensive knowledge of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, including its goals, priorities, and implementation requirements, to ensure alignment between MSDE's legislative strategy and Maryland's long-term education reform goals 
  • Developing and leading agency-wide regulatory development and review processes to ensure that regulations are updated, aligned with statute, and reflective of agency's policies  
  • Representing the agency and State Superintendent at select external meetings, commissions, panels, and forums

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university

Experience: Five years of experience in State or federal policy or politics, including experience in legislative strategy and process. 

Notes: Candidates may substitute the possession of a master’s degree or 36 post-baccalaureate credits from an accredited college or university in public policy, political science, education, or a related area for two years of the required experience.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualifications. Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.

  • Trusted relationships with Maryland elected officials and their teams or demonstrated ability to quickly develop and cultivate relationships
  • Ability to analyze policy, data and research to generate recommendations for executive leadership
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, including an ability to tailor communication of complex information for various audiences
  • Experience with designing and implementing systems and processes requiring collaboration from multiple stakeholders
  • Ability to effectively lead as well as supervise and train staff, manage projects, monitor performance, and provide timely feedback
  • Knowledge of Maryland's education system and the Blueprint for Maryland's Future

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must consent to a State Police Investigation (fingerprinting) as a routine procedure for all employees with this Agency.

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

It is preferred that applicants complete the MD State Government online application for employment. The application must clearly demonstrate that the applicant meets the minimum qualifications for the position. If you are unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and mailed to MSDE Human Resources Branch, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application, if you are unable to apply online.

All application materials must be received in our office by the closing date. Postmarks will not be accepted. Applications must be complete to be considered including all related job duties, even if those are also listed on an attached resume. Additional required materials may be uploaded with the online application, submitted to the fax number, or mailed to the Human Resources address listed above.

Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0012, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities.

If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay.

Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.



Click on a link below to apply for this position:

Fill out the Supplemental Questionnaire and Application NOW using the Internet. Apply Online
View and print the Supplemental Questionnaire. This recruitment requires completion of a supplemental questionnaire. You may view and print the supplemental questionnaire here.
Apply via Paper Application. You may also download and complete the Paper Application here.

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