Position Overview

Reporting directly to the Vice President for Government Affairs, the Associate Vice President for Local and Community Relations serves as the universitys primary liaison to local government and community stakeholders. This strategic leadership role is responsible for cultivating and sustaining meaningful relationships with local officials, civic leaders, and community organizations to advance the universitys mission and priorities. The AVP proactively engages in local legislative and regulatory matters, advises senior leadershipincluding the Presidenton local policy developments, and drives initiatives that enhance the universitys visibility, reputation, and impact within the community. Through high-level strategy development and collaborative partnerships, this role plays a critical part in strengthening goodwill, fostering mutual trust, and positioning the university as a vital community partner.

Department Overview

The Office of Government Affairs advances the universitys land-grant mission of teaching, research and public service in support of the success of our students, faculty and staff as well as the citizens of Ohio. We are committed to developing and sustaining strong partnerships between our federal, state and local public officials. With offices in Columbus and in Washington, DC, the Office of Government Affairs advocates for policies that affect the university including but not limited to student financial aid; research; academic medicine; workforce development, and technology and innovation.

Duties and Responsibilities

70%

As a senior member of the government affairs team, represents the university in local government and the greater Columbus community as a high level strategic partner; In alignment with internal university departments develops proposals and identifies, develops and coordinates interactions with local government and community organizations to enhance support for higher education and the overall mission, goals and objectives of the university; Supports and advises the President and other senior university leaders in advancing priorities with local government and community partners; Establishes and maintains relationships with community leaders and varied constituency groups; Represents the university on local boards, committees and ad hoc groups; Monitors, researches and/or analyzes local government legislative and regulatory issues, policies and proposals which may affect the university; Stays abreast of emerging issues in community development; prepares periodic reports and presentation materials; Maintains knowledge of current political, economic and social issues affecting the university; Collaborates with other higher education institutions, associations, and coalitions; Ensures compliance with lobbying regulations and reporting requirements; Supports university projects (e.g., new campus developments) by facilitating local approvals, permits, and community support; Briefs stakeholders on key legislative or policy issues relevant to university operations; Maintains a calendar of local policy deadlines, elections, and meetings relevant to the institution; Works closely with the universitys state and federal relations offices to ensure coordinated advocacy across all government levels; Contribute to institution-wide government relations strategies.

20%

Manages and directs the Government Affairs Analyst for Local and Community Relations; Directs research and oversees development of briefings for senior leaders on issues and engagements with local officials and community partners. Provides strategic direction for the execution of events, tours, and engagement within the local community; Recruits, trains, evaluates, motivates, and coaches employee(s) of various backgrounds and identities; establishes and monitors goals, provides performance feedback and coaching, and supports professional development; completes annual performance management procedures; manages performance issues; is responsible for using independent, consistent and fair judgement in exercising authority; develops procedures, assigns and prioritizes work, and ensures that the resources needed to accomplish work are provided.

10%

Coordinates with other units on campus that engage with local and community partners, including but not limited to the Office of Outreach and Engagement, Planning and Real Estate, Wexner Medical Center, Corporate and Foundation Relations, Economic Development, Extension, and Regional Campuses; Completes special projects and performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience

• 12 years of experience in local government and community relations

• Demonstrated experience working with local government officials, agencies, and community stakeholders

• Excellent leadership, organizational, analytical, problem solving, written and verbal communication skills

• Proven track record of managing complex projects or initiatives involving multiple stakeholders

Desired Qualifications (Were committed to building a team that reflects a variety of skills and experiences and encourage you to apply even if your experience does not align perfectly)

• Masters degree in public administration, political science, law, higher education administration, or a related field

• 15 or more years of relevant experience preferred

• Familiarity with higher education policy, including funding, regulation, and public accountability

• Supervisory experience or oversight of staff and budgets

• Experience organizing or participating in lobbying efforts, public hearings, or stakeholder meetings

• Demonstrated success in community relations, public outreach, and coalition-building

You Need to Know

Aside from the unparalleled benefits of working for The Ohio State University and working in the vibrant, smart, enjoyable, and growing city of Columbus, Ohio, this opportunity will provide exceptional rewards that arise from working for an institution doing worldwide life-changing teaching and research. Learn more here: Careers at Ohio State.

In accordance with the Disaster Preparedness and University State of Emergency Policy 6.17 this position has been designated as a standby position.

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