Director of Federal Government Relations - UC Riverside

Another Source•Riverside, CA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

This is a high-impact leadership role for someone passionate about higher education, research, public policy, and building strategic relationships in Washington, D.C. The Director of Federal Government Relations will help elevate UCR’s national voice and advance priorities across research, healthcare, economic development, and student success. The university is open to candidates based either in the Washington, D.C. area or Riverside, California. This position operates on a hybrid schedule, with an expectation of three onsite days and two remote days per week. Travel expectations will vary based on the selected candidate’s location, with approximately 25% travel for D.C.-based candidates and up to 50% travel for Riverside-based candidates. UC Riverside (UCR) is one of the fastest-growing and most forward-looking campuses in the University of California system. Recognized nationally for advancing social mobility, research innovation, and student success, UCR is helping redefine the role of a modern public research university. With continued institutional growth, expanding research investment, and a new Chancellor arriving in 2025, UCR is entering a pivotal and highly visible chapter. The university is increasingly positioned at the center of conversations shaping the future of higher education, healthcare, workforce development, and economic innovation across California and nationally. This role offers the opportunity to help elevate UCR’s voice and influence at the federal level during a time of significant momentum and opportunity. This is a rare opportunity for a strategic federal relations leader to step into a highly visible role with established relationships, institutional support, and a clear mandate to help shape UCR’s national presence. Reporting to the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Government & Community Relations, the Director of Federal Government Relations will lead the university’s federal advocacy strategy in close partnership with senior campus leadership, including the Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development. This role serves as a key advisor on federal policy, legislative strategy, and funding opportunities while helping position UCR competitively for federal investment in research, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives. Beyond policy and advocacy, this role offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative, tight-knit team environment where relationship-building, strategic thinking, and cross-campus partnership are highly valued. For a leader passionate about higher education and public impact, this position offers both influence and visibility within one of the nation’s leading public university systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or equivalent combination of education and experience
8+ years of related experience in government relations, public affairs, advocacy, higher education, or related environments
Strong understanding of the federal legislative and appropriations process
Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with federal officials, agencies, and external stakeholders
Exceptional communication, analytical, and strategic thinking skills
Proven political acumen and ability to navigate complex, high-visibility environments
Ability to influence, negotiate, and collaborate effectively across diverse constituencies
Experience advising senior leadership on legislative, policy, or public affairs matters
Ability to travel frequently for university-related business

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in a related field
Prior experience in higher education
Prior experience working with federal elected officials or within federal government environments
Knowledge of issues impacting higher education, healthcare, and research funding

Responsibilities

Represent UCR in Washington, D.C. with federal officials, national associations, and coalition partners to advance the university’s legislative and funding priorities
Lead development and execution of UCR’s federal appropriations strategy, including Community Project Funding (CPF), Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS), and agency funding requests
Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with Members of Congress, Congressional staff, federal agencies, and national higher education associations
Partner with research leadership, academic units, and health affairs to align federal funding priorities and maximize institutional competitiveness
Serve as a principal advisor to senior university leadership on federal policy, legislation, and emerging political developments impacting higher education and research
Support faculty engagement in federal initiatives and help position UCR for major federal research awards and infrastructure investments
Develop briefing materials, policy analyses, talking points, and strategic communications to support federal engagement efforts
Collaborate closely with internal partners including Legal, Compliance, Communications, and campus leadership to ensure aligned messaging and effective advocacy
Contribute to the overall strategy and success of the Government & Community Relations team while mentoring and supporting colleagues across the organization