Director Business Development

Pearson; Indianapolis (IN); Remote; USD 140,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Director of Business Development to spearhead partnerships and influence policy in education. This role requires a proactive leader with over a decade of experience in education reform and strategic partnerships. You will work independently while collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive growth and foster relationships with key decision-makers. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of virtual education through innovative strategies. If you're passionate about making a difference and thrive in dynamic environments, this role is for you.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in education reform, policy, and strategic partnerships.
• Strong persuasion and relationship-building skills.
• Experience in cross-functional environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead business development and state policy initiatives.
• Develop partnership strategies to meet regional objectives.
• Collaborate with sales to achieve new partner school goals.

Skills

Education Reform

Strategic Partnerships

Policy Development

Negotiation Skills

Relationship Building

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Master's Degree (JD, M.P.S., Economics, Public Policy, MBA)

Job description

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Position Summary

Working from a home office with the ability for substantial travel, the Director of Policy and Educational Partnerships at Pearson Virtual Schools is a field professional reporting to the Vice President of Policy and Educational Partnerships. The primary responsibility is to develop new Connections Academy partnerships and foster a positive policy environment in an assigned geographic region. You will establish relationships with key decision makers and influencers in education, such as state/district/school administrators, legislators, associations, company executives, and university leadership, leveraging your experience, relationships, and expertise to create growth opportunities for Pearson Virtual Schools.

The ideal candidate must be independent, innovative, entrepreneurial, creative, and knowledgeable, with the ability to bring large opportunities to successful outcomes. They will set and execute regional business strategies, be forward-thinking, and negotiate terms beneficial to Pearson and its customers. The role requires a problem-solving mindset, leadership across cross-functional teams, exceptional communication skills, and alignment with Pearson’s core values in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Demonstrate expertise in business development and state policy, leading to new full-time virtual school opportunities that meet organizational goals.
2. Lead projects to successful completion, demonstrating leadership skills internally and externally.
3. Develop partnership strategies and go-to-market plans to meet regional and national objectives, including college-career and new partnership models.
4. Create and lead strategies to influence public policies supporting virtual schools and programs, building relationships with high-profile customers.
5. Collaborate with sales and Customer Success teams to identify and achieve new partner school goals.
6. Work with state-based lobbyists and advocates to monitor and influence legislation, regulations, and policies affecting Pearson Virtual Schools.
7. Understand and communicate key national and state issues, rules, and regulations; implement strategic initiatives accordingly.
8. Build ongoing relationships with regulators, policy influencers, and advocacy organizations.
9. Develop and implement public policy plans for entering new markets and states.
10. Coordinate with Pearson’s US Government Affairs team to support broader policy interests.
11. Research and communicate policies, legislation, and regulations to stakeholders.
12. Utilize persuasive communication with various education and organizational leaders to identify and secure strategic partnerships.
13. Analyze industry trends, professional publications, and market research to demonstrate knowledge of online learning theories and practices.
14. Address key concerns and present mutually beneficial solutions.
15. Lead internal teams in the development of new schools, building trust and solving operational problems to meet goals.
16. Evaluate economic and strategic aspects of new business opportunities to make operational and commercial decisions.
17. Provide subject matter expertise, understanding business needs, solutions, and product improvements.
18. Oversee proposal processes, coordinating with stakeholders to design solutions and meet deadlines.
19. Build and support a network of stakeholders including education, legislative, community, and business leaders.
20. Lead and empower a diverse group of board members and establish a local advocacy network, collaborating with marketing to foster community relationships and influence public policy.
21. Manage cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives through strategic planning and goal setting.
22. Execute medium-term strategies to meet new school targets aligned with product roadmaps, financial goals, and compliance.

Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 10+ years in education reform, school development, policy, government affairs, strategic partnerships, or online learning.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred (e.g., JD, M.P.S., Economics, Public Policy, MBA, School Administration).
• Strong persuasion, prioritization, and relationship-building skills; ability to influence at all organization levels.
• Success in a cross-functional environment and understanding complex sales processes.
• Comfort with change and ability to influence others to adapt.
• Team-oriented with a proven track record of collaboration.
• Independent, proactive, and self-motivated.
• Ability to establish relationships with educational decision-makers and network effectively.
• Knowledge of virtual education policy issues and experience influencing policy changes.
• Experience collaborating with administration and policymakers, including senior management.
• Strong work ethic, capable of managing multiple projects with integrity and initiative.
• Frequent travel required (at least 50%), with a valid driver’s license.
• End-to-end negotiation experience, developing and executing successful partnerships.
• Strategic and creative thinking with sound judgment and analytical skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for complex issues and influencing others.

Compensation at Pearson depends on skills, experience, and location. The salary range is $140,000 - $145,000, with eligibility for an annual incentive program. Benefits information is available on request.

Who We Are

At Pearson, our purpose is to help people realize the life they imagine through learning. We are committed to lifelong learning and believe every learning opportunity is a personal breakthrough. Learn more about us: We are Pearson.

Pearson is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without discrimination. We seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.

If you require accommodations due to a disability, please contact [e-mail].