Managing Director, State/Federal Policy and System

Join AIR as Managing Director, State/Federal Policy and Systems of Support—a senior leadership role for professionals with extensive experience in state and federal education policy and a demonstrated record of research, technical assistance, and strategic systems improvement. Experience spanning sectors such as education, workforce, health, and community development is preferred. The role oversees a portfolio of complex, high‑impact projects and advances AIR’s mission through thought leadership, client engagement, business development, and mentoring of project teams. The Managing Director applies deep expertise in state and federal policy to guide large‑scale initiatives, cultivate strategic partnerships, and drive organizational and systems‑level success.

Candidates hired for the position may work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of our U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

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.

Responsibilities:

The responsibilities for the position include:

Strategic Leadership & Portfolio Management

• 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.

Systems Improvement & Policy Impact

• 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.

Project Excellence & Thought Leadership

• 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.

Team Development & Mentorship

• 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.

Business Development & Client Relations

• 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.

Qualifications:

Education, Knowledge, and Experience

• 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 w