Director of External Relations and Government Affairs - UMKC, External Relations and Constituent Engagement

The University of Missouri - Kansas City
External Relations and Constituent Engagement

UMKC's Division of External Relations & Constituent Engagement is seeking applications for the position of Director of External Relations and Government Affairs. This position manages relationships with community groups to enhance the university. The Director is accountable for key initiatives that advance university priorities and support the overall mission of the University of Missouri- Kansas City. This position will report to the Associate Vice Chancellor of External Relations and Constituent Engagement.

The Director of External Relations and Government Affairs is a key member of the External Relations Team. The Director is responsible for actively engaging university constituents and legislators, ensuring the value and quality of their experience, and advancing the reputation and stature of the University. Duties included, but are not limited to:

• Lead or collaborate on university-wide projects that have external engagement with key constituent groups.
• Work internally and externally to advance the image and reputation of the University by leveraging partnerships and collaborations.
• Provide overall strategy and vision for the university's engagement with elected officials at the city, county, state and federal levels.
• Oversee the Manager of External Relations' work in developing relations with elected officials at the city and county levels.
• Coordinate with the UM System Office of Government Relations in engaging members of the state and federal delegations.
• Forge partnerships and collaborations with government agencies to enhance the university.
• Work with Academic Affairs to bring external resources to the university to support the academic mission of the university.
• Serve as the divisional representative to the Division of Research and Innovation helping advance the university's research enterprise.
• In conjunction with the VC for Research and Innovation, guide the work of the DC firm contracted to engage UMKC faculty with various government agencies.
• Educate university constituent organizations to leverage volunteer activities in support of the university.
• Participate in community activities, events and organizations to assist in friend-raising and building advocacy for the University - specifically represent the university at the Chamber Public Policy Council and the KCEDC Policy Council among others.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

This position is a full-time, benefit eligible staff position.

This position is expected to be on campus five days a week, Monday through Friday.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 6 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and at least 8 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired, and the following traits:

• Experience with federal government relations, including cultivating relationships with federal elected officials, agency representatives, and key policy stakeholders.
• Experience in community outreach, event execution, and managing a range of volunteer groups and boards.
• Adaptability and the ability to perform in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to multitask efficiently and effectively, with strong attention to detail.
• Exemplary relationship management skills and political savvy.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit best practices and governmental reporting requirements.
• Demonstrated consulting and project management skills; and ability to handle multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, written, and oral communications skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaborate with others when necessary.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

This position is open until filled.

Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.