Managing Director, CALDER

American Institutes for Research•Sacramento, CA

4d•$189,000 - $230,000•Hybrid

About The Position

AIR is currently seeking a Managing Director to lead its Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research (CALDER). The Managing Director will join AIR’s Learning Supports team and contribute to our longstanding legacy of providing rigorous, impartial evidence-based research and resources that inform policy decisions on pressing and perennial education issues. As Director of CALDER, the Managing Director will continue to build CALDER’s influence as a trusted voice in important K-12 policy debates. This includes: building and sustaining partnerships with policymakers and national experts to generate and disseminate evidence on topics of timely importance; setting and overseeing standards for methodological excellence; and communicating with the media and other external parties about the latest evidence that addresses urgent challenges in the field. The role will help expand AIR’s impact in applying the most rigorous methods to generate evidence that improves K-12 education policy and practice. 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 and CALDER: Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-drive solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all. CALDER amplifies AIR’s impact by working directly with policymakers to generate objective, evidence-based insights. With data-sharing agreements in over 10 states, CALDER leverages statewide longitudinal data systems to develop systematic, quantitative evidence that informs policymakers in making decisions that impact student learning and success.

Requirements

PhD in economics, education, sociology, psychology, or a relevant field with a minimum of 15 years managing and conducting research, evaluations, and related work
National reputation for research and evaluation expertise in education policy as evidenced through publications, presentations, and service to the larger community
Frequent consultant and commentator in the media about education policy and evidence
Demonstrated knowledge of K-12 education policy
Experience overseeing research studies that use a range of methodologies including those that answer high leverage questions for policy makers and educators.
Strong partnerships with, and extensive networks of, leaders in education research, policy, and practice
Track record of winning competitive contracts/grants from funders (e.g., federal, state, and local government; foundations)
Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills at a senior/managerial level
Proven ability to develop staff capacity in research design, methods, and measurement; project management; client and partner relationships, and business development
Commitment to AIR’s mission to generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all
Excellent interpersonal skills to ensure effective communication with individuals at all levels and with a broad range of experience and knowledge
Ability to produce concise, high-level summaries and briefings
Ability to translate research methods and findings for a non-technical audience
Ability to build portfolio of research and/or policy projects
Demonstrated proficiencies in writing, conceptualizing, analyzing, and consulting
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis.
Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position.

Responsibilities

Set and oversee the strategic direction of CALDER as a leading voice in using data to drive K12 education policy decisions
Lead efforts to develop new business, including grant proposals and relationship-building with funders
Build and maintain excellent relationships with clients and potential clients who serve as policymakers at the national and state levels
Build eminence for the work of CALDER and AIR, by maintaining visibility of the work in the media
Design and carry out large research projects, including managing large teams to carry out those projects
Mentor and provide feedback to staff to support growth in their ability to design and lead research projects
Oversee the quality and technical rigor of deliverables and products
Represent portfolio of work to internal and external audiences
Collaborate with other AIR and LS leaders to ensure consistency in quality of work, identify and pursue cross-disciplinary opportunities, and expand organizational impact