Associate Director of Government Affairs

William and Mary, United States

Updated: about 20 hours ago
Location: Williamsburg, VIRGINIA
Job Type: FullTime

Position Information
Position Information


Position Number FP964W
Position Title Associate Director of Government Affairs
Employment Category Full Time Professional
Location William & Mary
Department 1G1000 Government Relations
Unit Mission Statement
The Office of Government and External Affairs manages W&M’s federal, state, and local government affairs, community engagement, economic development collaborations, and other private sector partnerships and assists university leadership in the development, coordination, implementation and evaluation of the university’s strategy, legislative priorities, and economic development initiatives. This office is central to building collaborative partnerships with government, business, and other universities that strengthen our academic programs and provide resources to serve the university’s mission of teaching, research, and public service.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Government and External Affairs, the Associate Director of Government Affairs will work collaboratively to advance the University’s agenda with state and federal legislative bodies and agencies. Duties include supporting the AVP in the execution of the institution’s government affairs efforts. Example responsibilities include:
  • Support state and federal government relations strategy development and implementation, including promoting legislative and fiscal priorities in Richmond and D.C.
  • Work collaboratively with University Operations, Office of the Provost, VIMS, Office of Advancement, University Events, and other offices on campus in supporting university priorities
  • Build and maintain relationships with units across campus as well as elected officials, government agencies, and other stakeholders
  • Liaise with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia to advance university programmatic and budget priorities
  • Conduct research and analysis and draft internal and external communications including the preparation of materials in support of the institution’s positions and priorities including preparing comprehensive briefings, presentations, reports, summaries, one-pagers, talking points, legislative and budget testimony
  • Track and analyze legislation and policy, monitor relevant legislation, and assess impact on the University
  • Plan, coordinate, and host elected and appointed officials to main campus, VIMS, Highland, D.C. Center, or other University-owned facilities and properties.
  • Monitor new and social media for items of interest and impact to the university.
  • Maintain confidentiality to protect and preserve confidential information in accordance with all University and government regulations.
  • As needed, represent the Office of Government and External Affairs on behalf of the AVP to relevant stakeholders


We will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this vacancy.
Conditions of Employment
  • This position will include some work on evenings and weekends and will also require travel within the region, to Richmond, Washington, D.C., and occasionally to other locations.
  • Must have a current driver’s license and provide personal transportation to local and regional events.
Essential Designation No
FLSA Exempt
Position Restricted? No, this is a continuing E&G funded position
Position Term 12 month - Continuing
Position Months Faculty or Staff: 12 month
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree or comparable education/experience
  • Knowledge of Virginia state government and the Virginia General Assembly
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing to a variety of external and internal audiences
  • Ability to collaborate with university leadership and stakeholders across the university community
  • Ability to proactively implement initiatives
  • High attention to detail, organizational skills, and adherence to deadlines/timelines
Preferred Qualifications
  • Degree in public policy, political science, public relations or related field. Master’s degree preferred
  • Significant government or policy experience (typically 5+ years)
  • Some experience with local, state, and federal government, and/or government relations;
Is the position remote work eligible? Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)
Remote Work Disclaimer
Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.
Advertised Pay Range $95,000-$120,000 commensurate with experience
Advertised Pay Range Statement
All hiring rates are commensurate with relevant experience up to the advertised amount considering internal alignment.
University Salary Range U15
Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none
Job Open Date 04/02/2024
Review Begin Date 04/16/2024
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Application Instructions
Background Check Statement
William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

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