Government Relations Director

Primary Purpose:
The Government Relations Director reports to the AVP of Strategic Communications, with a dotted line reporting to the President, and is responsible for serving the University of the Pacific in all three campuses (Sacramento, Stockton and San Francisco) by building and strengthening the University's relationships with government officials and agencies, business associations and community-based organizations at the federal, state, and local government levels. The Government Relations Director will implement and carry forward strategies for external relations, business engagement and social responsibility in accordance with the University's overall strategy.

Essential Functions:
Coordinate an external relations strategy that engages University leaders with key civic and government leaders to effectively advocate for University of the Pacific in Sacramento, Stockton and San Francisco.
Develop strategies to assist the University in accomplishing key goals that require cooperation and partnerships with local government and agencies, community groups, companies, institutions or employers.
Provide leadership and strategy to the Beyond Our Gates Community Council and Executive Committee, including convening and coordinating meetings, establishing agendas and strategic direction, strategically broadening membership, maintaining communication, evaluating and reporting outcomes.
Work with the Association of Independent California Colleges & Universities (AICUU) and coordinate the Universitys efforts to support Cal Grants and influence state governmental actions that can impact the University.
Work with the University Development and Alumni Relations team to support high profile activities that will promote the Universitys reputation and visibility in our three cities.
Develop strategic partnerships with a diversity of local stakeholders from government, non-profit or business organizations and the community.
Establish and implement short- and long-range organizational goals and objectives and monitor and evaluate program effectiveness.
Develop closer working relationships between the University campus leaders and federal, state, local, and regional community groups, including local elected officials, in addressing a myriad of social, economic, education, and environmental issues.
Monitor news, social media, and other media sources regarding federal, state and local government policy priorities. Determine potential impact on the University and advise University leadership as appropriate. Conduct general research and analysis regarding active and potential partnership areas.
Develop and execute complex written communications including presentations, speeches, news stories, web content, and correspondence.
Participate in community meetings for issues affecting the University, and as needed, plan and execute events regarding community engagement.
Organize and present effective community presentations concerning University initiatives and issues and represent the University, as appropriate, at public events.
Maintain and ensure accuracy of record keeping system in areas of compliance with federal, state and local government requirements.
Collaborate with University campus partners on community outreach and good neighbor initiatives.
Exercise sound judgement and represent the University professionally at a variety of internal and external organizations, events and public meetings.
Provide staff support for and/or monitor meetings and actions of the University and prepare reports and recommendations for further response as appropriate.
Develop and maintain relevant contact information and an inventory of community groups and individuals.
Provides feedback and reporting to the President, University community and stakeholders at regular internals and as requested.
Performs miscellaneous duties as assigned or requested.

University of the Pacific recognizes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is foundational to the success of our valued students and employees. We prioritize policy and decision-making that demonstrates awareness of, and responsiveness to, the ways socio-cultural forces related to race, gender, ability, sexuality, socio-economic status, etc. impede or propel students, faculty and staff.

Minimum Qualifications:Education/Experience/Certifications:
Bachelors Degree in External Relations, Business, Communications, Political Science or related field.
Three (3) years of related work experience in government and community affairs.

Preferred Qualifications:
Five (5) years of related work experience in government and community affairs.

Skills/Knowledge and Expertise:
Understanding of federal structures, budgeting and decision making process.
Experience working with state, federal and local legislative and civic leaders on a variety of issues including those that are highly sensitive and confidential.
Strong writing, presentation and interpersonal skills.
Excellent problem-solving skills, with judgement and ability to make decisions independently, and negotiate solutions.
Ability to read, understand and clearly draft proposed legislation.
Ability to work with a diverse group at all levels of an organization including faculty, staff, students, senior administrators and external constituents.
Ability to build and maintain internal and external relationships.
Ability to work under pressure and to manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines.
Positive attitude, proven ability to work successfully with diverse populations and demonstrated commitment to promote and enhance diversity, equity and inclusion.
Experience and sensitivity in working with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Demonstrated experience in advancing social justice, equity, and inclusion in a university setting.
Ability to engage and integrate culturally responsive practices and knowledge in their work.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative but not definitive of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requires extended periods of sitting and repetitive hand/wrist motion while using computer keyboard and phone. Occasional standing, walking across campus, climbing stairs, bending, stooping and reaching. Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds or more.

Work Environment/Work Week/Travel:
Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment with use of a computer and phone. Work scheduled during standard business hours, evening and weekends may be required to accommodate business needs. Travel both local and distant expected.

Hiring Range: Commensurate with experience, exempt

Background Check Statement:
All applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment are required to execute a release and authorization for a background screening.

To apply, visit https://pacific.peopleadmin.com/postings/22096

University of the Pacific is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer dedicated to workforce diversity. In compliance with applicable law and its own policy, Pacific is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse faculty and staff and does not discriminate in its hiring of faculty and staff, or in the provision of its employment benefits to its faculty and staff on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, genetic information, sex/gender, marital status, military and veteran status, sexual orientation, medical condition, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, or mental or physical disability.
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