Assistant Director - Davis, CA,

Assistant Director, Davis, CA, Job

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

The Government and Community Relations (GCR) Assistant Director will expand and strengthen the UC ANR Government and Community Relations team. This position will increase capacity to build and maintain excellent working relationships with key internal and external partners and with elected officials in local, state, and federal governments.

This position is a contract appointment that is 100% fixed and ends one year from date of hire with the possibility of extension if funding permits.

The home department for this position is Government & Community Relations. While this position normally is based in Davis, CA, this position is eligible for hybrid flexible work arrangements for applicants living in the State of California at this time. Please note that hybrid flexible work arrangements are subject to change by the University.

Pay Scale: $81,500/year to $115,800/year

Job Posting Close Date: This job is open until filled. The first application review date will be 10/24/2025.

• Under the supervision of the Government and Community Relations Director, develop, short & long term strategic plans, and implement government and community relations strategies that advance UC ANR's mission.
• Develop, nurture, and maintain effective relationships with government officials and their staff in the policy making process.
• Works closely with UC ANR units, in particular Strategic Communication, Development Services, Contracts and Grants and other administrative and program units across UC ANR.
• Under the supervision of the Government and Community Relations Director, works closely with UC Office of the President Government Relations offices in Oakland, Sacramento, and DC.
• Build/maintain excellent working relationships with key internal and external partners, typically at the highest level, including arranging meetings, events, tours/site visits or other opportunities to showcase UC ANR and serving as a strong advocate for institutional goals and objectives.
• May oversee all aspects of complex external relations programs, projects and events, including coordinating special programs and overseeing production of audio / visual or written and visual materials.
• Work closely with senior administration and other relevant contacts to develop and implement effective strategic plans that promote, advocate for and highlight achievements, activities and programs of UC ANR.
• Communicate UC ANR's mission, strategic and tactical plans, and technical capabilities and needs to federal, state and tribal officials, staff, and other visitors.
• Assist in the preparation of supporting testimony for committee hearings, as necessary.
• Closely monitor developments within federal, state, local, and tribal governments that may affect UC ANR programs and interests, and communicate developments and analysis to UC ANR leadership.
• Develop UC ANR outreach materials designed for government audiences.
• Interpret and advise UC ANR staff on policies regarding interactions with federal, state, local, or tribal officials, and with official visitors.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state and/or local laws, regulations, and/or rules, standards and guidelines.

• Develop and manage relationships with key community stakeholders, including businesses, civic groups, and academic institutions.
• Plan, develop and implement programs to promote community awareness of UC ANR.
• Ensure UC ANR representation and membership with local/regional boards and committees.
• Counsel and coordinate with UC ANR management and staff on effective and appropriate employee engagement with community organizations.
• Incorporate UC ANR, where appropriate, in community events, fairs, and other events.
• Quickly and appropriately identify, address, and mitigate unforeseen and/or rapidly unfolding events that may negatively impact relationships between UC ANR and various constituencies, keeping senior management appropriately advised and notified.

• Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience / training.
• Know…