Strategic Director, Government & Community Relations

Worcester Polytechnic Institute; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) invites applications for a Director of Government and Community Relations in Worcester. The role leads relationships with local and state officials, advocates for the institution, and coordinates community partnerships to advance institutional priorities.

Reporting to the Chief Governmental Relations Officer, the director will oversee strategy, policy briefs, testimony, and outreach programs while ensuring regulatory compliance and effective crisis

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related role, preferably within higher education. Previous work in government is a plus.
• Proven experience building and maintaining relationships with government officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrated knowledge of legislative processes and policy development at local, state, and federal levels.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategies for government engagement at local and state levels.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory issues that may impact the organization and provide regular updates to leadership.
• Advocate for policy positions that align with the organization's mission, preparing policy briefs, testimony, and other advocacy materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, regulatory bodies, and government agencies.
• Assist the Chief Governmental Relations Officer with federal and state activities as needed.
• Track, analyze, and influence public policy developments that affect the organization.
• Ensure the organization complies with lobbying, reporting, and other regulatory requirements related to government relations activities.
• Coordinate advocacy campaigns and mobilize resources to support the organization's public policy goals.
• Lead the organization's community outreach efforts, building partnerships with local leaders, civic groups, and community organizations.
• Represent the organization at community meetings, public hearings, non-profit boards, and events to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders.
• Develop and manage community engagement programs, including events, sponsorships, and partnerships that enhance the organization's public presence.
• Respond to community concerns and inquiries, ensuring a timely and effective resolution to issues.
• Identify and engage key stakeholders across sectors, including business, education, nonprofit, and government.
• Collaborate with internal departments to align community and government relations activities with organizational goals.
• Build coalitions and partnerships to support initiatives and drive positive outcomes for both the organization and the local community.
• Oversee external communications related to community and government relations, ensuring consistent messaging and branding.
• Prepare briefings, speeches, and presentations for executive leadership on public policy and community relations topics.
• Manage crisis communication strategies in collaboration with the public relations team to address issues impacting the organization.
• Performs all other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor.

Skills

Government relations experience

Relationship building

Policy knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Job description

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) invites applications for a Director of Government and Community Relations in Worcester. The role leads relationships with local and state officials, advocates for the institution, and coordinates community partnerships to advance institutional priorities.

Reporting to the Chief Governmental Relations Officer, the director will oversee strategy, policy briefs, testimony, and outreach programs while ensuring regulatory compliance and effective crisis