Director of Government and Community Relations

CHESS

117d • $73,284 - $90,245

About The Position

The Director of Government and Community Relations serves as the primary liaison between Luna Community College and local, state, and federal government entities, as well as community partners, businesses, and non-profit organizations. This position is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing strategies to advance the college’s priorities, enhance its public image, and strengthen its relationships with key stakeholders. The Director oversees and implements initiatives under the direction of the President to ensure the value of the college and its mission are effectively communicated to all audiences. This is a non-partisan position.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Relations, Communications, Public Administration, Journalism, Speech, or a related field or a combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in government relations, public affairs, community outreach, or a related field.
• Experience working in or with the New Mexico Legislature or state government is preferred.
• Experience working in a higher education setting is preferred.
• Strong understanding of New Mexico's political landscape, legislative process, and government structure.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, government staff, and community leaders.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify opportunities and challenges and develop proactive solutions.
• Discretion and ability to handle confidential and politically sensitive information with integrity.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with modern communication tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive legislative agenda for the college in collaboration with the President and senior leadership.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for federal and state legislators, their staff, and agency officials.
• Monitor legislative activity at the local, state, and federal levels, analyzing potential impacts on the college and preparing reports for college leadership.
• Coordinate visits and meetings for elected officials, legislative staff, and state agency representatives to Luna’s campus to showcase college programs and initiatives.
• Advocate for college funding, policies, and priorities with key decision-makers.
• Prepare and deliver testimony, presentations, and written reports to legislative committees, government bodies, New Mexico Independent Community College (NMICC), and other organizations supporting Luna with state, federal, and local governments.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, school districts, business associations, tribal governments, non-profits, and other key organizations.
• Represent Luna at community meetings, events, and a variety of public forums.
• Identify opportunities for Luna-community partnerships and collaborations that support workforce development, student success, and economic growth in the region.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the college on a variety of issues, working in collaboration with the president and the marketing team members.
• Develop and manage a strategic communications plan to promote Luna’s mission and achievements.
• Craft and edit press releases, talking points, speeches, and other public-facing materials.
• Act as the point of contact for media inquiries and press relations, working in tandem with communications staff.
• Manage and coordinate special events, including groundbreaking ceremonies, legislative receptions, and community forums.
• Supervise and train marketing support staff.
• Assist in preparing annual reports, board reports, strategic plans, and other high-level documents.
• Track and report on the effectiveness of government and community relations initiatives.
• Manage a departmental budget and track expenses.
• Other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree