Principal, Government Relations

Job Title: Principal, Government Relations

Location: United States (remote work)

Ability to Travel: May require 25-50% travel

This role aligns to industry level titles such as: Director of Government Affairs, Government Affairs Specialist, Strategic Advisor - Government Affairs

Job Description: 

The Principal of U.S. Government Relations will be a seasoned government relations professional with direct experience in multi-state legislative and regulatory advocacy. This role is responsible for advancing Pearson’s policy and business objectives in assigned states, while acting as a primary liaison to assigned business units, partnering with U.S. Government Relations leadership and certain internal business leaders to align on government relations goals and provide policy and political guidance. This position will be responsible for legislative and regulatory activities that affect the business and will ensure stakeholders are kept informed and engaged through the development and execution of government relations strategies. The Principal will build and maintain relationships with government leaders, policymakers, regulators, industry stakeholders, and other external parties within the region and target markets. This position will report directly to the Head of U.S. Government Relations.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Collaborate as an integral member of the U.S. Government Relations team to shape and execute the overall advocacy strategy and vision for Pearson’s business spanning the entire Pearson portfolio in assigned states, ensuring strategic prioritization of efforts, resources, and alignment with broader organizational goals and initiatives. 

• Advocate for policies that expand and enhance access, funding, and regulatory support for Pearson’s portfolio and innovations.

• Work in partnership with internal leadership to identify priority issues and develop targeted advocacy strategies at both the state and local levels.

• Develop and execute government relations strategies to respond to legislative and regulatory proposals that impact Pearson and our business in assigned states.

• Monitor emerging technology policies and best practices related to student data privacy, advocate for the ethical use of AI tools in education, and support initiatives that strengthen teacher readiness for AI‑enabled instructional environments.

• Educate policymakers and stakeholders on the benefits and outcomes of Pearson’s education programs