External Relations Manager

EXTERNAL RELATIONS MANAGER

(Government Relations Specialist III)

Texas leads the country in its unprecedented commitment to catalyze discovery and progress in preventing cancer and researching and developing innovative technologies to detect, treat, and cure cancer. Created by the Texas Legislature and approved by two statewide votes in 2007 and 2019, the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) directs the states $6 billion cancer initiative. To date, the agency has awarded more than $4.1 billion in grants to Texas research institutions and organizations through its academic research, prevention, and product development research programs, resulting in a significant increase in intellectual property and knowledge related to cancer treatments, cures, and prevention best practices.

The External Relations Manager performs highly advanced legislative, communications and consultative work. The position will coordinate and participate in the agency activities related to the Texas Legislative session, coordinate CPRIT's participation in external events and meetings with governmental, cancer community, and other external stakeholders; collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate accurate, clear, and comprehensive communications; and provide administrative and technical assistance to the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Prevention and Communications Officer.

The External Relations Manager reports directly to the Chief Prevention and Communications Officer. The position works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

CPRIT operates on a standard Monday - Friday work schedule. Approval of an alternative work schedule, including any form of teleworking, is at management's discretion and based on the business needs of the agency and the requirements of the position. This position may be eligible to telework up to a maximum of 20 hours in a 40‑hour‑a‑week hybrid work schedule.

$84,182 - $142,374/year

July 1, 2026

Must have at least four (4) years experience working in legislative, advocacy, or issues‑based work. This may include experience working with the Texas Legislature; advocating on behalf of a client related to the Texas legislative process; managing an issues‑driven or advocacy campaign; or performing communications work that supports legislative, policy, or advocacy efforts.

Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

• Knowledge of the Texas legislative processes and state government administration.
• Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, Texas budget appropriations process.
• Skill in compiling, evaluating, presenting legislative information; problem solving; analyzing data, and creating talking points.
• Skill in the use of a computer and applicable software.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines, and to communicate effectively.
• Ability to evaluate documents for accuracy and completeness.
• Maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Communicate professionally and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with all levels of employees, the legislature, and the public.

• Coordinate and may participate in agency activities related to the Texas Legislature.
• Schedule, attend, and support meetings with legislators and legislative staff.
• Identify, track, and analyze legislation affecting CPRIT; coordinate expert analysis and brief executive leadership.
• Monitor committee schedules, hearings, and agendas.
• Prepare hearing materials, testimony documents, and post‑hearing summaries.
• Manage internal communication of session developments, decisions, action items, and deadlines.
• Support preparation of legislative reports, bill implementation activities, and requirements stemming from newly enacted laws.
• Represent the agency in communications with elected officials and legislative stakeholders.