Executive Director, Federal Relations (Washington, DC)

Lobbying and Advocacy Efforts Oversee all lobbying and advocacy efforts to promote UA priorities before federal agencies and Capitol Hill. Establish and execute strategy to implement federal initiatives/partnerships important to the Office of the President, including working closely with the Office of Research and Partnerships on major research initiatives aligned with the university’s strategic imperatives. UArizona Federal Relations Agenda, Issues and Outreach Work with the Chief Government Relations Officer to establish and implement a subset of goals that reflect the priorities of the Office of the President. Uphold and reflect the established Mission, Goals and Values of UA in all actions and interactions related to UA operations and activities. Work with VP of Government and Community Relations to establish and implement a subset of goals that reflect the priorities of the Office of the President. Lead the development of a comprehensive UA federal agenda, working in collaboration with the Office of the President, Office of Research and Partnerships and the Office of the Provost. Oversee all UA federal outreach efforts to create and maintain strong UA presence on Capitol Hill, including all official student and faculty engagement, to ensure coordinated messaging. Actively participate as the UA representative for relevant national associations. Work closely with and coordinate the U of A’s Federal Relation Consulting Firms in formulating and executing the strategy for the university’s federal priorities. Organizational Operations, Management and Supervision Make organizational and operational recommendations to the Chief Government Relations Officer and the Senior Vice President for Research and Partnerships and provide regular, comprehensive progress updates on UA Federal Relations issues, opportunities, challenges and successes. Provide effective and well-coordinated management that align with UA policies and procedures of the Federal Relations, Washington, D.C. office. This position will provide day-to-day leadership, guidance and supervision to the Senior Director, Federal Relations, Special Assistant, Federal Relations and federal consultants. Provide clear expectations, solutions and required resources. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Understanding of the political dynamics within Congress. Understanding of the function and structure of federal agencies. Ability to effectively navigate the federal legislative process. Ability to effectively navigate federal grant making agencies and requests for proposals that align with university priorities. Ability to effectively communicate and influence elected officials, policymakers, agency heads, program managers, and external stakeholders. Ability to understand and leverage University of Arizona assets in order to secure grants, federal funds, and relevant legislative authorization and bill language. Ability to effectively lead organizational change. Ability to effectively manage multiple individuals while promoting a positive professional culture. Strong interpersonal, verbal and written communications skills. Ability to travel to Tucson, Arizona as well as other occasional travel.