Associate Director, Community and Local Government Relations

Associate Director, Community and Local Government RelationsThe George Mason University, Office of Community and Local Government Relations, is seeking qualified applicants for an Associate Director of Community and Local Government Relations position, based at Mason's SciTech campus in Prince William County. George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason's academic and culturally inclusive environment.The Office of Community and Local Government Relations serves as the lead liaison to the external community. The Office is responsible for connecting and developing sustainable strategic partnerships between the University and local government leaders and agencies, individuals, and business and community organizations. The Office is responsible for sharing the university's strategic plan, initiatives, and many services and resources with the external community.About the Position:The Associate Director of Community and Local Government Relations, based at Mason's SciTech campus, is responsible for assisting the executive director in developing the strategic direction of community and local government relations in the Prince William/Manassas region. This position represents the University as a whole to the primary communities of Prince William County, City of Manassas, and City of Manassas Park.Responsibilities:Develop sustainable strategic partnerships and relationships with local elected officials, key staff, government agencies, and federal district office liaisons representing the SciTech Campus region;Apply public relations strategies to develop, manage, evaluate, and enhance community relations and public outreach programs; share the university's strategic plan, initiatives, and many services and resources with the external community; andIdentify, implement, and manage an ongoing proactive outreach plan focused on enhancing strategic relationships and partnerships on behalf of the university with external businesses, not-for-profits, and other business-focused organizations; develop and/or participate in regional economic development activities as appropriate.Required Qualifications / Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Substantial experience in public policy, advocacy, government relations, marketing, public relations, communications, or a related field;Familiarity of the local political landscape and communities in the SciTech Campus region;Ability to quickly acquire basic knowledge of the University's goals, assets, resources, and services to effectively and persuasively advance the interests of the University;Ability to identify and cultivate strategic external and internal partnerships and resources that will fulfill the goals and objectives of the University's Strategic Direction;Effective human relations and customer service skills. Ability to handle stressful situations and people with a positive attitude, while conveying poise and maturity in a polished professional manner;Demonstrated strong organizational skills and attention to detail;Effective written and oral communication skills;Experience in project management;Ability to assess needs and to develop and implement creative solutions;Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with initiative to perform in the position with little or no supervision;Basic knowledge of computer technologies. Proficient with Microsoft Office suite. Experience with Emma email marketing system a plus;Demonstrated experience in outreach and engagement with government and/or community sectors, marketing, public relations, or a related field; andExperience with high-level executive interaction which may include coordinating public appearances by executive leadership and working with the communications specialist to prepare background briefings, compose talking points, and other communications as required.Preferred Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience;Familiarity of local elected officials and key community leaders; andExperience with Emma email marketing system.

For full consideration, applicants must apply at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references with contact information.

"Great Careers Begin at Mason! George Mason University is an innovative, entrepreneurial institution with national distinction in both academics and research. Mason holds a top U.S. News and World Report "Up and Coming" spot for national universities and is recognized for its global appeal and excellence in higher education.Mason is currently the largest and most diverse university in Virginia with students and faculty from all 50 states and over 135 countries studying in over 200 degree programs at campuses in Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William, as well as at learning locations across the commonwealth. Rooted in Mason's diversity is a campus culture that is both rewarding and exciting, work that is meaningful, and opportunities to both collaborate and create.If you are interested in joining the Mason family take a look at our current opportunities and catch some Mason spirit at jobs.gmu.edu/!George Mason University, Where Innovation is Tradition."

George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.