Manager – State Initiatives

Job Description:

  • Identify emerging business opportunities and shifts in market trends, employing this insight to inform and adapt the overarching Partnership Sales strategy to capitalize on growth opportunities
  • Develops a deep understanding of state-level education trends and opportunities, with a focus on state initiatives, policies, and standards alongside the full portfolio of Scholastic Education Solutions products
  • Identify, pursue, and maximize local, state, and federal funding sources for K–12 education, including grants, entitlement programs, competitive funding, and special initiatives
  • Develop and implement comprehensive funding strategies aligned with district goals, equity initiatives, and student outcomes
  • Monitor emerging funding opportunities, legislative changes, and policy updates impacting K–12 education finance
  • Works closely with Sr. Consultant, State Partnerships to prepare proposals, pitch decks, talking points, and research summaries in support of state-level initiatives
  • Participates in relationship-building activities with partners and prospective partners, representing Education Solutions’ capabilities and priorities
  • Manages a regular cadence of communications with internal stakeholders to provide insights and updates on state initiatives, including impacts on P&L
  • Coordinates state initiative budgets, strategic planning, and implementations
  • Collaborate with internal teams, including marketing, product development, and operations, to ensure alignment of sales efforts with overall business objectives
  • Stay informed about market trends, competitive landscape, and customer feedback to identify opportunities for product enhancements and new business development

Requirements:

  • BA/BS degree in Management, Marketing or Business-Minimum
  • Government relations skills preferred
  • A minimum of 5 years relevant experience in business development, partnership or account management, and/or strategic communications
  • Expert-level project management skills coupled with creative and collaborative problem-solving skills and adept EQ (emotional intelligence)
  • Experience as a subject-matter expert for major funding programs, such as (but not limited to): Title I, II, III, and IV
  • IDEA, SPED, and other nonprofit funding resources
  • ESSER and other emergency or stimulus funds
  • State education grants and categorical programs
  • Knowledge of all federal, state, and local regulations, and allowable use guidelines
  • Ability to function with a high degree of autonomy
  • Solid writing and presentation skills with an ability to synthesize multiple inputs and tailor communications to a range of audiences
  • Mastery of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel; self-sufficiency with basic design principles and programs a plus
  • Strong preference for experience in education policy or state government work
  • Passion for Scholastic mission and creating appealing products for students, teachers, administrators, and parents

Benefits:

  • Full suite of health and wellness benefits (including a $0 deductible Medical Plan)
  • Retirement Savings Plan 401(k) with options for both Roth and Traditional Contributions
  • Tuition-Free programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees
  • Generous Parental Leave Program
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with opportunity for discounted stock at a 15% discount
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