Regional Educational Laboratory Southeast Director

About the role

The Regional Educational Laboratory Southeast Director will lead a multi‑state educational research center based at FHI 360’s headquarters. Reporting to the funder and federal leadership, the Director ensures high‑quality, evidence‑based services that support decision‑making across the Southeast.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall strategic direction and leadership for the research center.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with state and local education agencies, higher‑education institutions, and regional stakeholders.
• Serve as primary liaison to the funder (COR) and federal officials.
• Lead the Governing Board and coordinate with Regional Comprehensive Centers, the National Comprehensive Center, and other federal technical assistance providers.
• Oversee design, implementation, and quality assurance of applied research, training/coaching/technical support, and dissemination activities.
• Supervise senior staff and subcontractors, manage budgets under a hybrid FFP/cost‑reimbursable contract, and ensure timely delivery of deliverables.
• Lead risk management, quality control, performance monitoring, and compliance with IES, ED, privacy, security, accessibility, and records‑management requirements.

Required profile

• Extensive experience leading education‑research programs at the regional or national level.
• Proven ability to manage senior staff, subcontractors, and multi‑million‑dollar budgets.
• Strong track record of partnership development with state education agencies, LEAs, and higher‑education institutions.
• Experience serving as a primary liaison to funders and federal stakeholders.
• Demonstrated expertise in ensuring research rigor, relevance, and impact.

Required skills