About GOSA: As the state's P-20 education agency, the Governor's Office of Student Achievement (GOSA) works to increase academic achievement and school completion across the state. The agency produces Georgia's education report card annually to provide transparent information for the state's Pre-K through college and career programs. GOSA also analyzes and shares trends in education and conducts audits for accountability purposes. GOSA uses data, research, and initiatives to improve student outcomes. While GOSA's direct affiliation is with the Governor's Office, it also works closely with the Georgia Department of Labor and all of Georgia's education agencies, including the Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC), the Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC), Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS), the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), and the University System of Georgia (USG).

The Opportunity: We are seeking an experienced Director of Policy and Research to lead our policy development and research initiatives. This role will be responsible for working with the GOSA leadership team in setting the strategic direction of our research agenda, overseeing the production of high-quality policy briefs and reports, and representing the agency as a subject matter expert. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of current education issues within the state, exceptional analytical skills, and a proven record of translating complex research into meaningful insights and actionable policy recommendations.

Key Responsibilities
Policy Development and Leadership
• Develop and implement the agency’s policy and research strategy, aligning it with our mission and strategic goals.
• Monitor legislative, regulatory, and administrative developments and advise leadership on implications and opportunities. Identify emerging policy issues and opportunities for impact.
• Represent the agency in policy discussions with governmental agencies and stakeholders.
Research and Evaluation Oversight
• Lead, manage, and mentor a team of researchers and policy analysts. Oversee the design, execution, and dissemination of rigorous research projects. Ensure the quality, accuracy, and objectivity of all research outputs.
• Establish protocols for data collection, analysis, validation, and dissemination to ensure high standards of methodological rigor.
• Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for use by GOSA leadership and policymakers.
Stakeholder Engagement
• Build and maintain strong relationships with state agencies, school districts, nonprofits, academic partners, and other stakeholders.
• Develop presentations, briefs, and reports that communicate findings in accessible and policy-relevant formats.
Team Management
• Recruit, train, and supervise a high-performing team ensuring timely and high-quality deliverables.
• Supervise and mentor a team of analysts and researchers; promote a culture of excellence.
Cross-Functional and Cross-Agency Collaboration
• Collaborate cross-functionally with other GOSA departments and external agency teams in support of the Governor’s initiatives.

Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Economics, Political Science, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in policy research, analysis, and evaluation, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Demonstrated success in education policy, research methodology, and managing teams.
• Proficiency with statistical analysis software (e.g., R, Stata, or Python) and data visualization methods.
• Strong understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and statistical analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex research findings into clear, concise, and compelling policy briefs, reports, recommendations, and presentations for diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, and agency partners.
• Deep understanding of education policy at the state and federal level.