Director of Federal Relations

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education ( https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,000 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

The Office of Government Relations serves as the primary point of contact between the University of Georgia and local, state and federal government offices and legislative bodies.

The Office of Government Relations works with elected officials, executive and legislative branch leaders and other institutions of higher learning to develop and implement strategies and programs to achieve public funding goals and to foster positive and effective ongoing relationships while improving the understanding of and support for the University's teaching, research and service missions.

Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM Friday

Flexibility to work nights and weekends

Applications: Applicant screening will begin immediately. Screening will continue until the position is filled. The application packet should include 1. A cover letter detailing how the applicant's credentials and experience meet the needs, responsibilities, and qualifications stated in the posting; 2. A current resume; 3. Contact information for three references, who will not be contacted without further correspondence with the applicant (upload reference list using Other Document #1); and 4. An optional writing sample may be added; a 1-2 page document showing the applicant's experience with writing to a government agency.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Requires at least a baccalaureate degree in the field. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.

Five years of government agency experience. If the experience is with state or local government, should include interaction with the federal government from that position

This position is based in Washington, DC, and its primary purpose is to advance UGA's institutional goals, secure federal funding for UGA priorities, and provide a presence with members of Congress, key federal agencies, the Administration, and higher-education organizations. The Director of Federal Relations works for and reports to the Vice President for Government Relations

The Director will be responsible for coordinating UGA's government relations program at the federal level, working primarily with Congress and key Executive Branch agencies, and assisting with the development and implementation of the university's federal agenda. The Director will work to maximize federal funding opportunities and manage UGA activities relating to appropriations, legislation, policy development and other activities important to UGA.

The Director will develop and maintain effective communications with external and internal constituencies in order to learn about and disseminate information to UGA, as well as trigger appropriate campus-based responses to federal opportunities. Regular updates or written briefings on federal government activities will be expected.

The Director will help connect faculty and administrators with key elected and appointed officials, including coordinating Washington and campus visits. The Director will assist UGA's Washington intern programs as needed.

The Director will oversee the operations and maintenance of Delta Hall in conjunction with the government relations assistant and act as the primary liaison with the UGA Foundation for such purposes.

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.