Program Management Director, Educator Preparation, Certification, and Enforcement Stakeholder Engagement​ (Program Management Specialist III) - Internal Vacancy

MISSION: The Texas Education Agency (TEA) will improve outcomes for all public-school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

Core Values:
• We are Determined: We are committed and intentional in the pursuit of our main purpose, to improve outcomes for students.
• We are People-Centered: We strive to attract, develop, and retain the most committed talent, representing the diversity of Texas, each contributing to our common vision for students.
• We are Learners: We seek evidence, reflect on success and failure, and try new approaches in the pursuit of excellence for our students.
• We are Servant Leaders: Above all else, we are public servants working to improve opportunities for students and provide support to those who serve them.

New hires, re-hires, and internal hires will typically receive a starting salary between the posted minimum and the average pay of employees in their same classification. Offers will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience and qualifications and will thoughtfully consider internal pay equity for agency staff who perform similar duties and have similar qualifications. The top half of the posted salary range is generally reserved for candidates who exceed the requirements and qualifications for the role. The maximum salary range is reserved for candidates that far exceed the required and preferred qualifications for the role.

This is a 5-day internal posting. We are only accepting applications from current Texas Education Agency (TEA) employees. External applicants will not be considered.

Position Overview: The Division of Policy and Planning supports department of Educator Preparation, Certification, and Enforcement (EPCE) by leading rulemaking, policy development, and strategic planning efforts that are data driven, transparent, and aligned with statutory and agency priorities.

The Program Management Director, EPCE Stakeholder Engagement, serves as the lead coordinator for stakeholder engagement efforts across EPCE. The position performs highly complex, senior-level work with limited supervision and considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The Director designs, coordinates, and oversees EPCE-wide stakeholder engagement strategies and structures in support of rulemaking, implementation, and policy development. The Director collaborates and coordinates with the TEA Communications Stakeholder Engagement and Media Relations teams and Governmental Relations teams to align stakeholder engagement planned for EPCE with agency-wide stakeholder engagement efforts. This role reports to the Senior Director of Policy and Planning and works in close collaboration with the Associate Commissioner of EPCE.

**Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates. **

**Please note that a resume, tailored cover letter, and short answer responses are required attachments for applying to this position. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who are strongly being considered for employment must submit to a national criminal history background check. **

Essential Functions
Job duties are not limited to the essential functions mentioned below. You may perform other functions as assigned.

1. Stakeholder Engagement Strategy and Program Management: Leads the planning, coordination, and ongoing management of EPCE‑wide stakeholder engagement efforts that are complex, multi‑phased, and aligned to approved rulemaking and implementation timelines. Independently develops stakeholder engagement plans, workplans, timelines, and centralized tracking tools; monitors progress across initiatives; identifies risks or issues affecting engagement quality or timelines; and recommends solutions or adjustments to leadership. Applies advanced program management knowledge and sound judgment to ensure consistency, effectiveness, and alignment across stakeholder engagement activities. Ensures coordination with TEA Communications and Governmental Relations to align EPCE stakeholder engagement planning with agency-wide stakeholder engagement efforts.
2. Stakeholder Engagement Facilitation and Structures: Designs, implements, and maintains standardized stakeholder engagement structures, facilitation approaches, and governance processes across EPCE. Oversees standing and ad‑hoc stakeholder groups to ensure adherence to established engagement standards and cadence. Prepares and distributes agendas, materials, and communications; facilitates meetings and engagement sessions; documents discussions, decisions, and follow‑up actions; and develops normed facilitation protocols to support high‑quality stakeholder interactions. Exercises independent judgment in tailoring facilitation methods to stakeholder audiences while maintaining alignment with agency expectations.
3. SBEC, SBOE, and Legislative Engagement Support: Coordinates stakeholder engagement activities associated with SBEC, SBOE, and legislative processes that require discretion, accuracy, and alignment with agency timelines. Develops stakeholder participation and communication timelines for public comment and engagement activities; coordinates with Governmental Relations, Communications, and SBOE Support to ensure alignment with agency- wide activities; and ensures timely and accurate information flow among internal and external stakeholders. Evaluates stakeholder feedback, emerging issues, and potential risks and determines appropriate escalation or briefing needs for senior leadership.
4. Cross‑Division Coordination and Initiative Support: Leads cross‑division coordination for stakeholder engagement initiatives that require collaboration, influence, and alignment across EPCE teams. Aligns with internal partners, including Communications and Governmental Relations, around shared objectives, timelines, and expectations; supports execution of engagement‑related deliverables; and addresses barriers that impact engagement outcomes. Serves as a trusted thought partner to Policy and Planning and EPCE leadership in strengthening sustainable stakeholder engagement systems and practices.