Government Relations Manager

• Full-time continuing opportunity

• Utilise your established government networks to engage on behalf of the University of Sydney

• Competitive remuneration package plus 17% superannuation

About the opportunity

Under the direction of the Director, Government Relations, the Government Relations Manager will ensure a government perspective is captured in all major University projects, including policy development and strategic ventures.

The Government Relations Manager will maintain and grow strong relationships with the key ministerial and parliamentary offices, at both the State and Federal level, as well as key departmental officers.

The Government Relations Manager will support the priorities of the University Executive, Deans and other key internal stakeholders and will work closely with key academics and researchers to advance their government engagement, notably in Canberra.

The Government Relations Manager will, as required, staff the Vice-Chancellor, Provost or Deputy Vice-Chancellors at government meetings and provide high-level strategic advice and guidance around the government policy landscape.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• grow and maintain strong relationships within the Federal and NSW governments (Ministers, Shadow Ministers, other elected members of parliament and staff)

• provide high-level and strategic advice and guidance around these governments' application of Federal and State government policy (existing and emerging policy)

• identify and support key researchers to engage effectively with government, notably the Federal Government, which will necessitate engagement in Canberra

• represent the University of Sydney at high-level networking and government events

• participate in University committees and working parties as required to support the effective implementation of the engagement, reputation and impact goals

• develop effective relationships and visibility of the role across the University and work closely with colleagues in academic and professional roles across the University.

About you

• tertiary qualifications in a relevant field

• previous senior experience within government, a tertiary institution or large complex organization

• exceptional stakeholder engagement skills; adept at managing a diverse group of senior stakeholders and relationships across government and the higher education sector

• excellent communication and analytical skills and an ability to research, formulate and present high quality briefings to internal and external audiences; prepare proposals and presentations

• excellent networking abilities, with an established network of contacts in government and the public sector

• proven experience in leading and personally delivering major programs in complex environments with multiple organisations and stakeholders.

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. For a continuing position, you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

Australian Temporary Residents currently employed at the University of Sydney may be considered for a fixed term contract for the length of their visa, depending on the requirements of the hiring area and the position.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role-=required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community which reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People , women , people living with a disability , people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds , and those who identify as LGBTIQ . We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. 

If you are a current employee of the University or a contingent worker with access to Workday, please log in into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard.  Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Kristy Fairweather, Recruitment Operations, by email to [email protected]

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The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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Applications Close

Wednesday 29 May 2024 11:59 PM