The Senior Director of Achievement Programs is the internal product expert and program manager for the portfolio of products that comprise the achievement tests (summative and interim assessments), writing programs (summative test and online practice program), and non-cognitive measures (well-being survey and social & emotional learning inventory). The Senior Director is accountable for the products themselves, including the work of vendors, policies and procedures, operational communications, and acceptance of new releases. The individual keeps the set of products in the achievement portfolio fresh and responsive to member and family needs, and sees that they evolve with the competition and evolution of the industry. The Senior Director incorporates voice-of-customer feedback into enhanced solutions, supports information needs for member outreach, and keeps teams informed of product changes.

Major Responsibilities

• Serve as the internal expert for test content, product features, delivery systems, policies, and publications for ERB achievement programs.

• Work with members of ERB’s senior management team to refine the business strategy for the achievement programs.

• Serve as the internal liaison from the field to the product. Translate unmet needs from voice-of-customer feedback into a plan for incremental improvements as well as program innovations.

• Collaborate with members of the ERB team to evaluate potential market opportunities and make the case for investments. Work with product and technology teams to help specify the solutions to be built.

• Establish policies and procedures related to purchasing, test administration, scoring, and reporting and ensure that decisions are made consistently.

• Work directly with vendors to optimize business processes and develop enhanced solutions.

• Take accountability for managing and conducting user acceptance testing for product releases.

• Lead the work to make annual updates to program communications that focus on operations, policies, and procedures.

• Provide program support to ERB teams in the field, including training, helping with outreach presentations, clarifying product details, and defining special offerings.

• Collaborate with customer service teams to evaluate open questions, clarify policies, make decisions, and resolve opposing viewpoints, both for one-off requests as well as routine program updates.

Ideal Experience

Ideally, the successful candidate will have experience managing programs, developing products, and working with research and development teams, especially in the assessment industry and/or an educational technology setting, as well as:

• 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience

• B.A. or higher in the social sciences, business, engineering, or statistics

• Deep understanding of educational assessment

• Product management and development experience

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Business strategy and analysis skills

• Strong ability to analyze problems and create innovative solutions

• Excellent organization, attention to detail, time management, and prioritization skills

• Excellent ability to listen, communicate, and collaborate with colleagues

• Poise and professionalism under pressure during busy testing seasons

• Ethical conduct in all things