Senior Director, Government & Community Relations

University of California, Berkeley; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 220,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Berkeley is seeking an Associate Vice Chancellor for Government & Community Relations to lead strategic government engagement and policy analysis. Reporting to the Chancellor, this role guides strategies across local, state, federal, and Tribal governments, with responsibilities spanning advocacy, communications, and broad stakeholder engagement.

The AVC GCR will supervise a high‑performing team, develop briefing materials, and coordinate cross‑campus partnerships to

Qualifications

• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated experience developing and implementing strategic government or public affairs initiatives.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements comprehensive government relations strategies that support institutional priorities and initiatives.
• Represents and manages a team before local, state, federal, and Tribal governmental entities and community organizations.
• Monitors legislative, regulatory, and public policy developments impacting higher education and advises campus leadership regarding implications and actions.
• Builds and maintains productive relationships with elected officials, governmental agencies, Tribal leaders, community organizations, and advocacy groups.
• Coordinates institutional advocacy efforts related to legislative, budgetary, and regulatory matters.
• Partners with UCOP Government Relations on issues as appropriate.
• Assists academic, research and administrative units in identifying and pursuing governmental funding opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Develops briefing materials, talking points, position papers, correspondence, and policy recommendations for senior leadership.
• Coordinates institutional responses to governmental inquiries, hearings, and public policy initiatives.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership ability

Relationship management

Political acumen

Project management

Analytical skills

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public policy or related field

Job description

University of California, Berkeley is seeking an Associate Vice Chancellor for Government & Community Relations to lead strategic government engagement and policy analysis. Reporting to the Chancellor, this role guides strategies across local, state, federal, and Tribal governments, with responsibilities spanning advocacy, communications, and broad stakeholder engagement.

The AVC GCR will supervise a high‑performing team, develop briefing materials, and coordinate cross‑campus partnerships to