Director State Data Initiatives

The Director, State Data Initiatives, will lead strategic state partnerships and initiatives that help governments use administrative data to improve public policy, strengthen programs, and drive measurable impact. This role combines deep knowledge of state government operations, data collaboration, and policy with hands-on leadership of complex projects. The successful candidate will guide state agencies in building effective data governance practices, developing cross-agency partnerships, and translating data into actionable insights. They will oversee project strategy and delivery, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and cultivate relationships with government leaders and external partners. Working closely with research, technical, and operational colleagues, the Director will ensure that initiatives are practical, secure, and aligned with partner priorities. This is a remote, full-time opportunity, with a preference for candidates on the East Coast and some travel required.

• Relevant professional experience: 7–10 years of experience in state government, administrative data initiatives, public policy, applied research, technical assistance, or public-sector program improvement, including leadership of complex state engagements.

• State government expertise: Demonstrated experience working within or closely with state government agencies on administrative data initiatives is required. Previous employment in a state agency is strongly preferred.

• Knowledge of government operations: Strong understanding of state agency structures, decision-making processes, interagency coordination, budget and procurement procedures, and policy and implementation constraints.

• Policy domain expertise: Deep subject matter knowledge in at least one relevant area, such as K–12 or postsecondary education, workforce development, human services, corrections, or economic mobility.

• Administrative data collaboration: Experience supporting cross-agency data initiatives, statewide longitudinal data systems, P20W integrated data efforts, governance frameworks, readiness assessments, learning agendas, data use agreements, or evidence-building programs.

• Technical and analytical understanding: Ability to understand how administrative data is collected, managed, linked, and used, and to connect technical considerations with policy objectives and operational needs.

• Project leadership: Proven ability to lead complex state initiatives, including defining substantive approaches, directing multidisciplinary teams, managing partner relationships, and maintaining deliverable quality within agreed scope, schedules, and budgets.

• Team and stakeholder coordination: Experience coordinating consultants, subject matter experts, and cross-functional contributors, with the ability to build alignment and ensure follow-through.

• Communication and facilitation: Excellent presentation, facilitation, relationship management, and written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex policy, data, and governance topics to varied audiences.

• Education: An advanced degree is preferred. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, combined with an equivalent mix of education and experience, is required.

• Additional technical familiarity: Experience with secure data environments, restricted-use data, privacy-preserving research workflows, dashboards, or data visualization is preferred.

• Working arrangements: Ability to work remotely within the United States, accommodate occasional evening or weekend work when needed, and travel as required.

• Professional approach: Strong judgment, adaptability, and commitment to trust, collaboration, high-quality delivery, and continuous improvement.