Executive Director, Governmental and External Affairs

Houston Community College•Houston, TX

About The Position

Responsible for the development and management of strategies that seek to inform HCC stakeholders regarding public policy at the federal, state, and local government levels. Executive level staff at HCC are system-wide leaders that share the responsibility to collaboratively support the one-college vision articulated in our strategic plan – Embracing Houston’s Future – with college strategic priorities as measurable manifestations of our shared Mission, Vision, and Values. Responsible for the design, execution, and effectiveness of a system of internal controls which provide reasonable assurance that operations are effective and efficient, assets are safeguarded, financial information is reliable and compliant with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. Manages Talent Engagement activities for direct reports in regards to recruiting and selection, hiring and termination, training, development, mentoring, counseling, and performance evaluations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Government, Political Science, Business or related field required
8 years professional experience in fostering beneficial relations with local, state and/or federal legislative bodies and public officials and/or former regulatory compliance experience required
Valid Texas Driver License
MS Office Programs
Information Management Systems
Budget Management

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or Juris Doctor preferred

Responsibilities

Direct and manage the staff and contractor efforts in support of all HCC communication and public policy initiatives, particularly with the Texas Legislature and the U.S. Congress.
Manage work activities of student employees, assistants and/or interns.
Assist in the identification of issues and development of policy positions for the entire HCC system.
Manage and maintain a comprehensive strategic planning and policy development process, consistent with HCC System’s strategic planning and policy development process to effectively address policy matters impacting the institution.
Lead the policy development process and represent the institution before legislative and rulemaking bodies.
Interact with local public and private entities, as well as local, state, and federal associations committed to the advancement of higher education.
Monitor federal, state, and local legislation and work to inform HCC stakeholders about HCC projects and initiatives and maintain positive relationships among external policy makers and HCC officials.
Serve as liaison for HCC with legislators and other governmental officials and agencies.
Monitor legislation regarding funding and laws/regulations affecting community colleges; interpret funding formulas and related bills to achieve appropriate resources and support for college projects and initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels.
Confer with national and state associations regarding legislation that may impact community colleges.
Facilitate and coordinate the interaction of Trustees, the Chancellor and other district officials with HCC’s government relations consultants, legislators, and other government officials.
Develop written correspondence and issue documents; develop and present policy analysis and position papers as needed to explain HCC programs and initiatives.
Ensure that the Governing Board, the Chancellor, and other district officials are kept informed of new, anticipated and pending legislation.
Formulate strategies in collaboration with local and state governments regarding the college’s bond election and annexation activities.
Collaborate with relevant HCC stakeholders on projects that involve governmental regulators, public entities, and higher education.
Provide policy advice to the Governing Board, Chancellor and HCC executives that support the policy agenda and other related purposes of the institution.
Provide advice to the Chancellor and executive team on relevant matters relating to and impacting board agenda items.
Identify opportunities for outside grant funding and other savings programs.
Speak at local, regional, and international conferences.