The Managing Director, Online Learning and Digital Innovation, provides strategic leadership in the development, implementation, and growth of our online professional learning and professional certification initiatives, and the digital tools and platforms upon which they rely. This role oversees the integration of adult learning theory, instructional design, digital technologies, and professional learning experiences to enhance accessibility, engagement, and effectiveness for instructional leaders, educators, pre-service teachers, and other stakeholders. The Managing Director oversees P&L for the department while ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and goals, manages cross-functional teams, fosters innovation in digital learning solutions, and measures the effectiveness and sustainability of our offerings.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Vision

• Collaborate with the Chief Innovation Officer to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for online learning and digital innovation, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
• Drive innovation in digital learning experiences, incorporating best practices in instructional design, micro-credentialing, and online professional development.
• Oversee the growth and evolution of certification and credentialing programs, ensuring quality, accessibility, and market relevance.
• Determine a content strategy that reflects the organization’s core values while ensuring ongoing market relevance and high demand for our offerings.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in professional learning initiatives.

Operational Oversight and Program Management

• Lead the development and execution of online learning initiatives, including ISTE U, professional credentialing, and digital education platforms.
• Ensure seamless integration of learning management systems (LMS) and digital tools to enhance user experience and engagement.
• Oversee the instructional design process, ensuring high-quality course offerings, faculty support, and continuous program enhancement.
• Oversee the design and production activities of internal teams and external agencies ensuring all deadlines are met.
• Oversee the production of high-quality video, multimedia, and graphic materials to support the delivery of instruction and learning services.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of CEUs, micro-credentialing, and college accreditation programs.
• Establish and manage comprehensive quality assurance processes and measures for course development and delivery, trainer certification, portfolio evaluation, program effectiveness, learner satisfaction, and continuous improvement.

Partnership and Business Development

• Identify, negotiate, and manage strategic partnerships with educational institutions, government agencies, and authorized providers, both domestically and internationally.
• Expand revenue-generating opportunities through digital learning products, certifications, and professional learning programs.
• Work with internal marketing, sales, and partnerships teams to develop and execute effective go-to-market strategies for online learning initiatives.

Financial and Resource Management

• Oversee the financial performance of the online learning and digital innovation initiatives, managing budgets, revenue streams, and P&L responsibilities.
• Identify cost-effective strategies to scale online learning programs while maintaining high quality and impact.
• Ensure fiscal accountability and effective resource allocation to support business sustainability.

Team Leadership and Talent Development

• Provide leadership and supervision for directors and managers overseeing online learning, professional credentials, and instructional design.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture through coaching, mentorship, and professional development.
• Encourage cross-department collaboration to integrate online learning initiatives into broader organizational goals.

PRIORITY WILL BE PROVIDED TO CANDIDATES LIVING IN THE DC METRO AREA (MD, DC, or Northern VA); you will be REQUIRED to come into the Arlington, VA office one day per week.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expertise in learning science, online learning, instructional design, and digital education strategies across multiple modalities.
• Strong business acumen with experience in P&L management, scaling learning programs, managing budgets, and driving revenue growth.
• Proven ability to lead teams and foster collaboration across multiple departments.
• Advanced knowledge of learning management systems (LMS), competency-based education, and micro-credentialing.
• Strong strategic planning, communication, and analytical skills.
• Experience with data-driven decision-making and leveraging analytics to improve learning experiences.

Experience

• Master’s degree in education, instructional design, learning technologies, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in online learning, digital education, or instructional design, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• 6 years of developing products using a full product life cycle approach.
• Experience developing and scaling online learning programs, including courses, micro-credentials, and certification programs.
• Exceptional track record of managing partnerships and external collaborations.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Normal office environment with moderate noise levels.
• Ability to remain at a desk for extended periods.
• The ability to travel for meetings, conferences, and partner engagements as needed.
• Ability to lift or move objects up to 10 pounds.