Director of Community Relations

UMass Amherst • Amherst, NY

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Community Relations advances the campus’ community relations strategy by developing and implementing initiatives, events, and programs that strengthen relationships with local neighborhoods, civic groups, municipal departments, and residents. The Director plays a lead role in addressing and mitigating quality of life concerns and fostering positive, collaborative relationships between the campus and surrounding communities. In this role, the Director advises the Associate Vice Chancellor and Vice Chancellor for University Relations, the Chancellor and other members of the campus leadership on community relations matters and serves as a primary liaison to public officials and community representatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• 5-7 years management experience in government, public service or a related field.
• Familiarity with the workings of municipal government.
• Ability to interact frequently with executive level officials from a range of organizations.
• Ability to speak in public and with the media.
• Ability to work with diverse groups often in confrontational or sensitive settings.
• Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Excellent persuasive and negotiating skills.
• Respect for confidential information and commitment to secure it.
• Required to work nights and weekends as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the role of higher education institutions in the area of outreach and public service.

Responsibilities

• Leads community relations initiatives, events and projects that advance the campus mission and foster positive relationship with local communities.
• Serve as the primary liaison to residents, municipal leaders, landlords and public safety partners to proactively address concerns related to student behavior, construction, and neighborhood issues.
• Advise campus leadership on public relations, messaging and communications strategies to enhance the University’s community impact.
• Represents the University at town meetings, community forums, panels, and advisory committees; cultivate relationships with public officials and community stakeholders.
• Negotiate and manage agreements with municipalities, ensuring compliance and promoting mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Oversee communications and outreach efforts, including newsletters, reports, social media and media relations to highlight the University’s community engagement.
• Provide leadership and oversight to UMACC and UMass Downtown, including mentoring staff, managing budgets, and expanding campus-community programs and engagement.
• Track, evaluate, and promote campus-community partnerships, service initiatives and engagement programs.
• Plan and host high-profile events involving donors, alumni, legislators and other stakeholders to strengthen University-community connections.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive