Managing Director, State​/Federal Policy and System

About AIR

Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We generate evidence and apply data‑driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

• Oversee a portfolio of projects, serving as principal investigator, project director, or senior advisor as needed.
• Develop and execute strategic business pursuits, identifying new markets, clients, and opportunities for AIR.
• Represent AIR at national conferences, cross‑agency leadership teams, and in high‑profile client engagements, sharing evidence‑based insights and shaping the field.

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of state systems of support, ensuring alignment with state and federal priorities.
• Guide the development and implementation of innovative data‑driven decision‑making frameworks at scale.
• Ensure compliance with major legislative initiatives and regulatory requirements.

• Demonstrate mastery of research methodologies, technical assistance approaches, and/or policy development and implementation.
• Lead large, complex projects and secure competitive contracts and grants from federal, state, and foundation sources.
• Publish and present research findings in high‑impact venues, contributing to AIR's eminence and reputation for expertise.

• Mentor and develop junior and mid‑level staff, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Serve as a senior leader for programs, advancing AIR's strategic goals and supporting organizational change.

• Cultivate and maintain client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor to federal, state, and local partners.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, contributing to AIR's growth and sustainability.

• Ph.D. or Ed.D. with 15+ years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree with 19+ years in education, public policy, social science, or related fields.
• At least 10 years of direct experience working with state and federal partners in education and adjacent fields (e.g., workforce, health, community development).
• Demonstrated mastery in research methodologies, technical assistance approaches, project leadership, and strategic systems improvement.
• Experience leading large projects, mentoring teams, and managing organizational change.
• Proven track record of securing competitive funding and leading large‑scale research, technical assistance, and policy initiatives.
• Strong reputation for expertise in the field, evidenced by publications, presentations, and client feedback.
• Established networks in the field and a willingness to cultivate relationships on behalf of AIR.

• Experience presenting at national conferences and collaborating with research and policy organizations.
• Excellent communication, analytic, and strategic thinking skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel nationally.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full‑time basis. Employment‑based visa sponsorship (including H‑1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks. AIR maintains a drug‑free work environment.

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