Government Relations Director

The Government & Community Affairs Director serves as the primary strategic advisor to the university’s academic and executive leadership on all matters related to government affairs, public policy, and community engagement. This full‑time role is responsible for monitoring policy trends, cultivating relationships with political and community leaders, advocating for university interests, and securing public funding.

• Strategic Policy Analysis & Executive Advising – Lead the development and implementation of the GSA strategic plan, manage federal representation compliance, advise executive leadership on legislative trends, draft white papers and policy briefs, and monitor regulatory changes.
• Government Funding & Grant Procurement – Identify and pursue federal and state funding opportunities, align institutional priorities with public funding streams, coordinate with Development, and lead advocacy materials targeting agencies and committees.
• Legislative Advocacy & Association Leadership – Act as the university’s registered lobbyist, engage in Ohio Statehouse and federal agencies, liaise with advocacy organizations, represent the university on public‑policy issues, and promote the legislative agenda.
• Community Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement – Cultivate relationships with civic leaders, lead community engagement projects, and support advancement through political and community connections.
• Institutional Impact Measurement & Reporting – Design a data‑driven framework to quantify socio‑economic impact, author the Annual Impact Report detailing economic contributions and partnership outcomes.
• Administrative & Division Leadership – Manage office operations, website maintenance, program coordination, and supervise student workers or interns.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 1–3 years of experience in government relations, public policy, or a related field.
• Preferred:
  Master’s degree or higher (expected to be completed within two years of hire).

• Analytical – advanced ability to reformulate complex problems and assess legislative implications.
• Communication – highly proficient written and oral skills; ability to negotiate and facilitate collaboration.
• Lobbying & Negotiation – demonstrated ability to resolve conflict with political leaders.
• Project Management – proven ability to manage schedules, accountabilities, and deadlines independently.
• Technical – intermediate proficiency in spreadsheet analysis, database and website maintenance.

• Independence – sets own goals and determines how to accomplish results with minimal guidelines.
• Decision Making – decisions have significant implications for division and overall organization strategy.

• Comprehensive insurance plans: medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
• Tax‑advantaged accounts: health savings, flexible spending, and dependent care.
• Life and long‑term disability insurance, accident and illness insurance, and retirement savings plans.
• Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Tuition remission for employees and eligible dependents.