Director of Government Relations
Job Title: Director of Government Relations
Status: Full-time Exempt
Reports to: Executive Director
Application Deadline: Sunday, February 10th
Position Summary:
The Director of Government Relations is responsible for the planning, coordination and implementation of Students United’s comprehensive advocacy program. The Director will provide advice and counsel, and serve as a strategic advisor on legislative issues and will develop strong relationships with students, legislators and their staff, and higher education stakeholders. The Director will serve as a resource for students, legislators and Minnesota State staff and will have knowledge on relevant state and federal higher education policy and proposals. The Director will work with the entire Students United team to implement all student-led organizational objectives.
Position Duties:
Advocacy Program
Advocate on behalf of the students of the seven Minnesota state universities
Develop, administer and coordinate student-initiated legislative programs
Meet strategic plan advocacy goals
Implement Students United’s legislative objectives, platforms, agendas and motions
Manage Students United’s advocacy programs at the local, state and federal levels.
Develop processes to engage students throughout the legislative process through lobby corps and other opportunities
Work with the campus committees to achieve advocacy results.
Collaborate with the Director of Communications and Director of Equity and Inclusion to implement advocacy objectives
Build Relationships
Engage with other higher education stakeholders including Minnesota State, IFO, MSCF, LeadMN and others
Strategic Advisor
Provide research, information updates and issue development for students, legislators, and other higher education stakeholders
Remain in regular contact with higher education stakeholders to inform them of Students United positions
Research
Remain informed on all pertinent higher education issues, including those related to Minnesota State and state and federal legislative issues
General
Lead and develop workshops and trainings at conferences and on campuses
Attend Students United conferences, meetings, and related events
Other duties as directed by the Executive Director
Experience and Qualification Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree
A minimum of two years of related work experience
Ability to travel
Ability to be flexible and versatile
Willingness to work some weekends
Strong verbal and written communications skills
Comfort with public speaking and leading training sessions
Ability to work with diverse groups
To apply please send a resume, cover letter, and references to our Director of Operations, Kalista Mangahas, at kmangahas@studentsunited.org.