At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead partnerships with state governments to enhance early childhood education initiatives.
- Company: Join Rocket Learning, a dynamic ed-tech non-profit transforming education in India.
- Benefits: Remote work, travel opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to educational equity and systemic change.
- Why this job: Shape policies that improve learning outcomes for millions of children.
- Qualifications: 8-10 years experience in government or partnerships; strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Location: Remote | Frequent travel across states
Type: Full-time
Expected Start Date: As soon as possible
About Rocket Learning
Rocket Learning is a high growth ed-tech non-profit with the mission of catalyzing early childhood education and community engagement in India. We work with the central government and state governments and are currently impacting over 4 million children. Established by a passionate founding group (IIT, IIM, HBS, Rochester, MBB, start‑up alumni) and backed by reputed funders, we are a diverse team of passionate, energetic and optimistic folks with a shared ambition of transforming India’s education system.
About the Role
This is a senior, full-time leadership role reporting directly to the Co‑Founders. The position sits at the intersection of Early Childhood Development (ECD), public policy, and ecosystem strengthening. Rocket Learning has been supporting the Central Government and multiple State Governments on key initiatives within the Anganwadi system, and we are now expanding this work. The Lead, State Policy and Advocacy will be responsible for driving and managing these strategic partnerships across priority states. The candidate will work closely with the Co‑Founders to anchor, deepen, and scale collaborations with State Governments, particularly the departments of Women and Child Development and Education. They will also oversee state‑level policy teams, ensuring high‑quality support to government counterparts. In addition, the role involves responding to government requests, coordinating across internal functional teams, and mobilising institutional resources to enable seamless execution of state partnerships and policy initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Build and sustain trusted relationships with senior government stakeholders in states to strengthen the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) ecosystem
- Lead and manage State Program Management Units (PMUs) to design, operationalise, and monitor ECD‑related policies and initiatives in partnership with state departments
- Support state operations teams by engaging with key stakeholders to advance Rocket Learning’s initiatives, including digital interventions, events, training programmes, and curriculum development
- Develop high‑quality knowledge products such as briefs, strategy notes, policy documents, file notings, proposals, and research reports to inform and support government decision‑making on ECCE
- Provide end‑to‑end support to state government partners, including planning, coordination, drafting, research, report writing, speech writing, and M&E activities aligned with strengthening ECCE, particularly within the Anganwadi system
- Collaborate closely with Rocket Learning’s National Initiatives & Policy team, as well as functional and operational teams, to provide policy inputs, conduct comparative state analyses, document best practices, coordinate field visits, and support state‑level priorities
- Demonstrate ownership, initiative, and agility, consistently delivering high‑quality outputs in dynamic and unpredictable environments
Key Outcomes
- Strengthened ECD ecosystem resulting in measurable improvements in developmental and learning outcomes for children aged 0‑6 years
- High‑impact state‑level policies and initiatives that drive meaningful structural reform and sustained action for Early Childhood Development
- Robust, trust‑based partnerships with senior government officials and key civil society stakeholders, enabling long‑term collaboration and system‑wide change
Required Qualifications
- 8‑10 years of total work experience, including 3‑5 years in a senior role within government or in leading government‑facing partnerships for private or non‑profit organisations
- Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline such as public policy, economics, management, or related fields
- Exceptional ability to think, synthesize, and communicate with clarity while navigating complex systems and multi‑stakeholder environments
- Strong writing and analytical skills, including research, structuring, and drafting, with the ability to deliver high‑quality outputs quickly
- Proven ability to manage multiple workstreams, solve problems independently, and operate effectively in fast‑paced, high‑pressure settings
- Deep alignment with Rocket Learning’s values and mission, including a commitment to equity, systems change, and collaborative working
- Willingness to travel extensively (7‑10 days per month) to state capitals, including at short notice, to support urgent government requests and engagements
Preferred Criteria
- Experience in early childhood care and education
- Mission‑driven, enthusiastic and optimistic – committed to transformation
- Enthusiasm and skills to deal with the opportunities and challenges of supporting governments
- Experience working in State governments, internships included
Lead, State Policy and Advocacy in Rochester employer: RippleWorks Inc.
Rocket Learning is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture, dedicated to transforming early childhood education in India. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, team members are encouraged to engage in meaningful partnerships with government stakeholders, while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and extensive travel opportunities. Joining Rocket Learning means being part of a passionate team committed to making a tangible impact on millions of children's lives, supported by a diverse and experienced leadership team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead, State Policy and Advocacy in Rochester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your industry, especially those connected to early childhood education and public policy. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to make those valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Rocket Learning's mission and recent initiatives. Show us you’re passionate about transforming India’s education system and have ideas on how to strengthen the ECCE ecosystem. We love candidates who come with fresh perspectives!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on our radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in working with us.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed there, so keep an eye out for opportunities that match your skills and passion.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead, State Policy and Advocacy in Rochester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Lead, State Policy and Advocacy role. Highlight your relevant experience in public policy and early childhood education, and show us how your skills align with our mission at Rocket Learning.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:Since strong writing is key for this position, include examples of your previous work that demonstrate your ability to draft high-quality documents. Whether it's reports, proposals, or policy briefs, let us see your best work!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application, keep your language clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This way, we can ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you'll be one step closer to joining our amazing team at Rocket Learning!
How to prepare for a job interview at RippleWorks Inc.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in early childhood education policies and the specific challenges faced by state governments. Research Rocket Learning’s initiatives and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves working closely with government stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Prepare examples of past collaborations and how you’ve successfully navigated complex stakeholder environments.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
Given the emphasis on high-quality outputs like policy documents and briefs, be prepared to discuss your writing process. Bring samples of your work that highlight your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.
✨Demonstrate Agility and Initiative
This role requires someone who can thrive in dynamic environments. Share examples from your past where you’ve had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances or take the lead on a project without much guidance.
