Strategic State Sales Leader, Education Funding

Pearson; Annapolis (MD); On-site; USD 170,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual incentive program

Job summary

Pearson seeks a senior leader to own the state strategy and drive revenue through state appropriations and funding mechanisms. You will lead a team of state strategy managers, engage with governors’ offices, and partner with Government Affairs to shape budgetary priorities.

Based in the United States, this role focuses on K-12 and CTE initiatives, advocating for funding, and securing durable partnerships with state education leaders. A strong policy background is essential.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in state policy, education policy, budget strategy, or related commercial roles combining policy expertise and proven commercial impact.
• Direct experience securing K-12 state funding for CTE, workforce development, or career pathway initiatives.
• Proven track record of owning and closing significant state-level deals with revenue accountability.

Responsibilities

• Own a portfolio of strategic states with a $20M+ state funding quota.
• Meet state education leadership and appropriations officials; negotiate with support from Government Affairs.
• Research state trends, budgets, and legislation to identify funding opportunities.
• Develop integrated state strategy frameworks linking priorities, funding, and go-to-market.
• Lead state certification placements and influence procurement and funding decisions.
• Coach and manage state sales strategy team for adoption of funded curricula.

Skills

State policy

Budget strategy

Sales leadership

Relationship management

Strategic thinking

C-suite communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Business, Education, Economics, or related field

Job description

Pearson seeks a senior leader to own the state strategy and drive revenue through state appropriations and funding mechanisms. You will lead a team of state strategy managers, engage with governors’ offices, and partner with Government Affairs to shape budgetary priorities.

Based in the United States, this role focuses on K-12 and CTE initiatives, advocating for funding, and securing durable partnerships with state education leaders. A strong policy background is essential.