Chief External Affairs Officer

Chief External Affairs Officer

Location: Remote 

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

About Accelerate

Accelerate exists to dramatically improve student outcomes at scale by turning evidence into action. As a hub for advancing what works, Accelerate partners with states to scale proven, evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students. We share knowledge and insights across the field to expand what’s possible, working alongside leaders to embed effective solutions into the fabric of public education. By aligning research, policy, and practice through state implementation, we turn evidence into measurable progress, helping students thrive.

Accelerate is a growing organization - equity-centered, results-oriented, and grounded in both optimism and practical implementation. We aim to build a small, talented, diverse team that embodies our core values: accelerating student achievement, seeking truth through evidence, embracing new ideas, multiplying impact through collaboration, and upholding accountability for results and how we achieve them. Team members bring both systemic experience and an entrepreneurial spirit to the work.

About the Role

The Chief External Affairs Officer (CEAO) is a senior executive responsible for Accelerate’s public-facing strategy, including fundraising, communications, storytelling, and brand management. This role involves aligning external efforts with the organization's strategic goals, building and maintaining key stakeholder relationships, and overseeing media, marketing, and development/fundraising functions to enhance Accelerate’s national brand and presence. 

Reporting to the CEO, the CEAO will oversee the Managing Director of Development and Communications and the Managing Director of Strategy. 20% travel is anticipated.

What You’ll Help Us Do

Fundraising and Development

• Partner with senior executives to design a long-term fundraising strategy that sustains Accelerate’s growth
• Develop and oversee a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure multi-year commitments for grant and research initiatives
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective funders, clearly articulating Accelerate’s vision and impact
• Oversee the management and compliance of government and foundation grants

Thought Leadership & Field Influence

• Develop and implement Accelerate’s external engagement strategy, aligned to organizational mission and goals
• Drive public discourse on proven, evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students at scale
• Support knowledge sharing with the field to elevate effective models and innovations

Communications and Brand Management

• Develop and execute a communications and public relations strategy that strengthens Accelerate’s national presence
• Guide the growth of brand awareness and reputation across key audiences
• Align staff on consistent, accurate messaging; equip team members to engage effectively with external stakeholders
• Lead cross-functional collaboration to ensure cohesive external strategy across departments

People Management & Culture

• Build and lead a high-performing team; provide ongoing feedback, coaching, and development opportunities
• Foster a mission-aligned, inclusive culture in partnership with the Leadership Team.
• Build strong, trusting relationships across departments

Who You Are

Successful employees at Accelerate:

• Champion the potential of all students and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Model an easygoing, approachable, and calm demeanor while multitasking in a fast-paced environment
• Communicate clearly and build strong relationships across a variety of internal and external stakeholders
• Listen openly, learn continuously, and connect authentically with diverse communities, including students, families, educators, policymakers, local leaders, and funders
• Demonstrate strong organization and attention to detail while interpreting and following complex guidelines and instructions

What You’ve Done

• Extensive professional experience with a minimum of 10 years in a senior leadership and/or executive role
• Prior experience in public affairs, communications, and/or donor relations required. 
• Prior experience in K12 policy, nonprofit management, and/or philanthropy required

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is between $200,000 and $250,000. Accelerate also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, technology stipend, 401k with employer match, and generous PTO.

How to Apply

Please submit your application here. The preferred application deadline for this position is December 11, 2025. Note that we do not guarantee review of applications after this date.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Accelerate is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and has a strong commitment to building a diverse and inclusive team. As such, it is the continuing policy of Accelerate to consider all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.