Executive Director of State Programs

Executive Director of State Programs

Location: Remote

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

About Accelerate

Accelerate exists to dramatically improve student outcomes at scale by turning evidence into action. As a hub for advancing what works Accelerate partners with states to scale proven evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students. We share knowledge and insights across the field to expand whats possible working alongside leaders to embed effective solutions into the fabric of public education. By aligning research policy and practice through state implementation we turn evidence into measurable progress helping students thrive.

Accelerate is a growing organization - equity-centered results-oriented and grounded in both optimism and practical implementation. We aim to build a small talented diverse team that embodies our core values: accelerating student achievement seeking truth through evidence embracing new ideas multiplying impact through collaboration and upholding accountability for results and how we achieve them. Team members bring both systemic experience and an entrepreneurial spirit to the work.

About the Role

The Executive Director of State Programs (ED) is a senior executive responsible for leading Accelerates state strategy to scale proven evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students. This role involves positioning multi-million dollar state grant programs to align research policy and practice in service of the organization's strategic goals to drive outcomes at scale by turning evidence into action.

Reporting to the CEO the ED will lead Accelerates state strategy directly managing senior staff responsible for government relations and state program execution. 20 % travel is anticipated.

What Youll Help Us Do

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement Accelerates external state strategy and engagement approach aligned with organizational mission and goals

• Drive public discourse on proven evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students at scale

• Recruit and support state programs to drive student outcomes

Legislation and Policy

• Monitor and analyze legislation regulations and emerging policy issues impacting education providing timely guidance to inform strategy and external engagement

• Develop model policies and regulations that facilitate the implementation of evidence-based practices in education

Coalition Building and Knowledge Sharing

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including policymakers government officials and advocacy and nonprofit groups

• Partner with the broader education and national service community to work as a coalition on key federal agendas

People Management & Culture

• Build and lead a high-performing team; provide ongoing feedback coaching and development opportunities

• Build strong trusting relationships across departments

Who You Are

Successful employees at Accelerate:

• Champion the potential of all students and advance diversity equity and inclusion

• Model an easygoing approachable and calm demeanor while multitasking in a fast-paced environment

• Communicate clearly and build strong relationships across a variety of internal and external stakeholders

• Listen openly learn continuously and connect authentically with diverse communities including students families educators policymakers local leaders and funders

• Demonstrate strong organization and attention to detail while interpreting and following complex guidelines and instructions

What Youve Done

• Extensive professional experience with a minimum of 10 years in a senior leadership and/or executive role

• Prior experience in a senior role in a State Education Agency preferred

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is between $200000 and $250000. Accelerate also offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical dental and vision coverage technology stipend 401k with employer match and generous PTO.

How to Apply

Please submit your application here . The preferred application deadline for this position is December 11 2025. Note that we do not guarantee review of applications after this date.

Equal Opportunity Employer Accelerate is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and has a strong commitment to building a diverse and inclusive team. As such it is the continuing policy of Accelerate to consider all applicants without regard to race color religion national origin age gender sexual orientation genetic information veteran status disability or any other categories protected by applicable federal state or local law.