Director, Human and Civil Rights

National Education Association

2d•$223,995 - $239,719•Hybrid

About The Position

The National Education Association (NEA) is seeking a Director of the Human and Civil Rights (HCR) Department within the Center for Racial and Social Justice. The HCR Director will lead the department, advance NEA’s strategic priorities in a complex and dynamic environment, and balance the needs of various stakeholders. The HCR Department focuses on advancing equity and racial justice to enhance organizational effectiveness across state affiliates, member engagement, and internal teams. The Director will manage and set strategic priorities for the HCR Department in alignment with the Center for Racial and Social Justice. A successful candidate will demonstrate a deep understanding of complex networks and union-based structures, the ability to navigate internal politics, expertise in diagnosing inequitable systems and designing interventions, and the skill to translate equity concepts into measurable outcomes. They will also be adept at facilitating adult learning experiences that deepen understanding of equity frameworks and liberatory practices. This DC-based position reports to the Senior Director of the Center for Racial and Social Justice and may be eligible for telework.

Requirements

An advanced degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in Education or Public Policy preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills may be obtained.
Demonstrated senior management expertise, including a successful record of achievement in leading a diverse, professional business unit.
Management experience within a union environment is strongly preferred.
Demonstrated experience with policy and program development, implementation, and evaluation.
Demonstrated commitment to labor-management collaboration.
Ability to articulate a strategic vision for the Human and Civil Rights Department that is both innovative and creative, fostered by external relations and partnerships, as well as cross-departmental collaboration, to drive, strengthen, and align departmental goals and offerings with NEA’s broader organizing efforts, mission, and strategic initiatives.
Ability to work in dynamic environments; using data to enhance and evaluate programmatic efforts; managing teams, projects, systems, resources, and budgets to drive and ensure the continued relevance of the HCR’s work to NEA members and affiliates.
Effective skills in supervision, decision-making, oral/written communications, policy analysis, race-equity analysis, interpersonal relations, team building, project management, and meeting facilitation.
Proven leadership skills in fostering a creative work environment and working collaboratively across a complex organization to ensure effective integration and alignment of resources and programs.
Proven ability to direct, coordinate, coach, mentor, motivate, delegate, and supervise staff effectively through a collaborative, results-driven approach.
Ability to address, advocate for, and implement practices related to issues of race, class, social and racial justice, and equity – acknowledging the impact these systemic issues have on both the work they lead, and on great public schools.
To carry out responsibilities, the incumbent needs strong written and verbal skills, the use of a computer and/or laptop, associated software, and other office technology and online collaborative tools, including Microsoft Teams or other videoconferencing applications.
Ability to travel frequently (30-45 overnights per year).
The position involves creative and analytical thinking; oral and written communication skills; meticulous attention to detail; human relations skills; use of a computer and/or laptop; sitting, standing or walking for long periods; stooping, bending, and reaching; and stamina to work long hours and ability to travel by various conveyances, e.g., automobile, plane.
The position involves skill in using a computer and/or laptop; oral and written communication skills; skills in proofreading and editing; use of clear and articulate speech; interpersonal relations skills; reasoning and problem-solving skills; ability to work in a fast-paced environment; ability to sit for long periods, stoop, bend, reach and carry light materials (up to 10 lbs.); and ability to travel by various methods of transportation, e.g., airplane, car.

Nice To Haves

Management experience within a union environment is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Guiding the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of programs by working with teams to develop racial justice-centered engagement strategy tools, frameworks, and trainings.
Coaching and mentoring staff to strengthen expertise in racial justice frameworks, equity practices, and strategic program delivery and relationship building.
Ensuring alignment and integration of work across all HCR teams and with the Community Advocacy & Partnership Engagement (CAPE) Department.
Supervising and guiding assigned program staff and managers in executing departmental and center-wide programs and approving work plans, deliverables, and operational resources.
Tracking team performance, evaluating progress on programmatic goals, and providing guidance to improve effectiveness and outcomes.
Leading the design and delivery of NEA’s Annual Conference on Racial and Social Justice.
Engaging and collaborating with staff union representatives on issues that impact HCR staff, including professional development opportunities, all-staff meetings, and identifying opportunities to remedy systems issues.
Managing the HCR Department’s budget and operations in a fiscally responsible manner in adherence to relevant organizational policies and procedures.
Implementing effective project management strategies, ensuring strong stewardship of members’ dues, and meaningful outcomes of all programs.
Acting strategically in rapidly changing internal and external environments, advising staff and elected leaders on opportunities and challenges related to social, racial and economic justice issues.
Other duties as assigned.