Strategic Affairs Manager - BizGov

At Instructure, we believe in the power of people to grow and succeed throughout their lives. Our goal is to amplify that power by creating intuitive products that simplify learning and personal development, facilitate meaningful relationships, and inspire people to go further in their education and careers.
We do this by giving smart, creative, passionate people opportunities to create awesome. And that's where you come in:

About the Role

The Strategic Affairs Manager (BizGov) will play a key role in advancing Instructure's mission by supporting state-by-state policy agendas, managing relationships, and activating state workforce and education initiatives. This role requires an in-depth understanding of the global education landscape, policy-making processes, and the ability to influence policy and procurement outcomes. The individual will also collaborate across the BizGov sales, Marketing, and Academic Strategy teams, including government affairs, consortia relationships, and go-to-market initiatives.

What You’ll Do

• Work closely with the VP of Strategic Affairs, VP of Sales for BizGov, and the marketing team to strengthen and expand Instructure’s policy influence and market presence.

• Build and nurture relationships with state policymakers, education and workforce leaders, and state agency staff.

• Inform policy and regulations in education, technology, and other relevant areas.

• Enhance Instructure’s visibility, reputation, and appreciation as a mission-driven market leader.

• Identify market creation and business opportunities for Instructure, its customers, and partners.

• Build internal expertise and guide decision making about the evolving policy environment.

• Develop and execute Instructure’s BizGov public affairs strategy globally.

• Maintain relationships with key state policymakers, agency leaders, and influential partners, such as consortia, foundations, and advocacy groups.

• Manage government affairs, go-to-market, and business development priorities in alignment with sector leadership.

• Address policy areas such as state education and workforce modernization investments, national K12/higher ed/workforce regulations, skill credentialing, and digital learning.

• Represent Instructure in consortia and policy groups; monitor/analyze state legislation and regulations.

• Advocate for Instructure’s policy positions and manage external consulting/lobbying resources as needed.

• Educate company leadership and staff on relevant policy developments and implications for business decisions.

• Coordinate internal policy feedback and input processes.

• Identify and communicate new contacts, information, and opportunities to internal leaders to support business goals.

• Manage industry association, nonprofit, and government alliance relationships to foster long-term growth opportunities.

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in international government affairs, public policy, or related field.

• Education experience in K12, higher education, or workforce development.

• Deep knowledge of state policy, regulatory environments, and procurement processes.

• Proven relationship-building skills with policymakers and stakeholders.

• Strong communication, advocacy, and negotiation skills.

• Excellent presentation skills.

• Experience managing external lobbying and consulting resources.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Additional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to travel up to 25%

Get in on all the awesome at Instructure!

We offer competitive, meaningful benefits in every country where we operate. While they vary by location, here's a general idea of what you can expect:

• Competitive compensation, plus all full-time employees participate in our ownership program - because everyone should have a stake in our success.

• Flexible work culture. Our remote, hybrid and in-office collaboration spaces vary by role, team and location.

• Generous time off, including local holidays and our annual “Dim the Lights” period in late December, when teams are encouraged to step back and recharge based on departmental needs.

• Comprehensive wellness programs and mental health support

• Learning and development resources, including professional development tools and tuition reimbursement, to support your growth

• The technology and tools you need to do your best work

• Motivosity employee recognition program

• A culture rooted in inclusivity, support, and meaningful connection

We believe in hiring great people and treating them right. The more diverse we are, the better our ideas and outcomes.

Instructure is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We comply with applicable employment and anti-discrimination laws in every country where we operate.

All employees must pass a background check as part of the hiring process. To help protect our teams and systems, we’ve implemented identity verification measures. Candidates may be asked to verify their legal name, current physical location, and provide a valid contact number and residential address, in accordance with local data privacy laws.

Any attempt to misrepresent personal or professional information will result in disqualification.