Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Government Relations

Duke Careers•Durham, NC

About The Position

Duke University is seeking an experienced Executive Assistant to the Vice President for Government Relations to provide high‑level administrative and operational support in a fast‑paced, high‑visibility environment. In this role, you’ll manage complex scheduling, prepare executive communications, and serve as a key liaison across the university and with external stakeholders—including government agencies and leadership partners. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of the Office of Government Relations while handling sensitive and confidential matters with professionalism and discretion. This position is ideal for someone who thrives supporting senior leadership and managing complex, high‑impact work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
5+ years of executive‑level administrative experience with increasing responsibility
Knowledge of administrative processes in higher education or healthcare environments
Strong discretion, judgment, and ability to manage competing priorities
Ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting senior executives in government, policy, or institutional settings
Experience managing confidential and highly sensitive information

Responsibilities

Perform advanced, diversified and confidential secretarial and administrative duties by independently preparing for meetings, crafting memos, and correspondence; completing a variety of non-routine assignments; coordinating busy and shifting office calendar including scheduling and coordinating meetings and/or conferences on campus and in other locations, and processing a considerable amount of confidential and sensitive information in support of administrative activities, which may include sensitive work with state, federal and international government bodies; serve as the primary liaison for executive and other senior management personnel.
Prepare and develop government reports related to lobbying compliance at the state and federal levels. Serve as university’s main liaison with those entities on this matter.
Manage daily operation of the Office of Government Relations by assisting in developing administrative goals and priorities for departmental long-range strategic planning; order and maintain sufficient inventory of office supplies; communicating, implementing, interpreting and revising policies and procedures as appropriate; facilitating process improvement analysis for work unit; maintain knowledge of technology. Assist in oversight of Duke in DC’s administrative practices and policies.
Participate in budget management by assisting in managing an operating budget, assisting in budget preparation and control, and analyzing unit operating procedures; effectively administer, develop and monitor contracts with outside vendors/consultants; analyze data trends and advise executives of significant changes or discrepancies (e.g. budget).
Maintain and develop (when appropriate) extensive, regular outside contacts on behalf of the executive with executives and boards of directors of other companies, regulators, elected representatives, charitable boards, and customers.