Director, Education and Law
About the role
The North Carolina Justice Center is seeking an accomplished attorney and inspiring leader to serve as the next Director of the Education and Law Project. This role provides strategic leadership for the Education and Law Project while helping ensure that every child—regardless of race, income, disability, language, or zip code—has access to a high-quality public education.
Responsibilities
Leading the overall strategy, operations, and performance of the Education and Law Project.
Serving as one of the organization's senior legal experts.
Guiding the project's vision, managing talented staff, strengthening partnerships across North Carolina, and helping shape policies that improve educational outcomes for students and families.
Developing and implementing innovative strategies that advance educational equity through the courts, public policy, and community engagement.
Building strong relationships with clients, educators, advocates, policymakers, coalition partners, and community organizations.
Managing project budgets, grants, contracts, and reporting requirements.
Identifying and pursuing funding opportunities while partnering with development staff on grant proposals and funder engagement.
Serving as a member of the Justice Center's Coordinating Council, contributing to organizational leadership, strategic planning, and cross-functional initiatives.
Representing the Justice Center before courts, administrative agencies, legislative bodies, public forums, and the media.
Requirements
Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
Licensed to practice law in North Carolina or a state with reciprocal jurisdiction.
Bridges significant expertise in education law, with the ability to navigate complex legal issues while advancing equitable outcomes for students, families, and North Carolina public schools.
Significant experience practicing law, with substantial experience in education law, civil rights, public interest litigation, or closely related fields.
Demonstrated success leading teams, managing projects, and developing staff.
Excellent litigation, legal writing, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
Experience building partnerships across diverse communities and stakeholders.
Strong strategic thinking, sound judgment, and exceptional communication skills.
A demonstrated commitment to racial equity, educational opportunity, and the mission of the North Carolina Justice Center.
Preferred Qualifications
Active member in good standing of the North Carolina State Bar.
Experience with nonprofit leadership, legislative advocacy, impact litigation, grant-funded initiatives, and coalition building is highly valued.