Strategic Government Relations Director

Pennsylvania-College-of-Technology; Williamsport (Lycoming County); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Educational benefits for employees and

dependents at Penn College and Penn2

Job summary

Penn College in Williamsport is seeking an Executive Director, Government & Strategic Relations to serve as a trusted advisor to the President and lead the College’s government relations strategy with external stakeholders. The role coordinates cross-College initiatives and liaises with state and federal officials, community leaders, and business partners to advance priorities.

The position requires seven years of leadership experience in government, higher education, public policy, or related

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Public Policy, Communications, Public Administration, Political Science, Education or related discipline is required or a bachelor's degree with substantial relevant experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills are required.
• Demonstrated ability to lead groups and foster teamwork in complex organizational environments.
• Exceptional political acumen and understanding of governmental processes are required.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, diplomacy, and discretion in highly sensitive situations.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills are required.
• Ability to influence and coordinate across organizational boundaries without direct authority.
• Experience coordinating complex projects and initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
• Extensive travel across Pennsylvania and periodic travel to out-of-state locations is required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the President and a member of the President’s Cabinet.
• Monitor legislative, regulatory, and public policy developments and advise the President on implications and opportunities for the College.
• Coordinate the College’s government relations strategy with OGCR and internal stakeholders; manage College-contracted advocacy services.
• Cultivate relationships with elected officials, government agencies, economic development organizations, business leaders, and community stakeholders.
• Help secure and lead meetings, campus visits, events, and other engagement opportunities involving public officials and external partners.
• Collaborate with College leaders to advance priorities aligned with the strategic plan.
• Represent the College at local, state, and federal meetings, including travel as needed.
• Promote and enhance the College’s reputation and visibility throughout the region and Commonwealth.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Political acumen

Diplomacy

Relationship building

Strategic thinking

Project coordination

Cross-functional leadership

Travel readiness

Judgment and discretion

Education

Master's Degree in Public Policy or related field

Bachelor's degree with substantial relevant work experience

Job description

Penn College in Williamsport is seeking an Executive Director, Government & Strategic Relations to serve as a trusted advisor to the President and lead the College’s government relations strategy with external stakeholders. The role coordinates cross-College initiatives and liaises with state and federal officials, community leaders, and business partners to advance priorities.

The position requires seven years of leadership experience in government, higher education, public policy, or related