Manager - Strategic Partnerships and External Engagement (Office of the President)

Stephen F. Austin State University•Main Campus, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an executive position responsible for facilitating connections between regional governments and stakeholders and SFA as part of the mission, goals, and functions of the university. Serves as a liaison to the university and manages external relationships and partnerships. Assists the Director of Governmental Relations on legislative initiatives. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the President.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree is required.
Three years of related experience is required.
Direct experience working with government officials and state agencies is required.
Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, university policies and procedures, organizational structure, and external constituent relations.
Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, statutes, regulations, codes and standards related to the area of responsibility.
Knowledge and understanding of higher education systems and structures.
Organizational skill in managing projects simultaneously while maintaining a satisfactory work product.
Skill in public speaking and delivering presentations to individuals and groups.
Skill in using computer applications including spreadsheet, database, and word processing software.
Ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including legislators, dignitaries and their staff, delivering positive customer service experiences.
Ability to proactively identify potential challenges and make recommendations to solve them.
Ability to develop and maintain effective interpersonal and collaborative relationships.
Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
Ability to set priorities and complete assignments on time.
Ability to learn office and university-specific software.
Ability to work evenings, nights, and weekends, as necessary.
Ability and desire to promote a favorable image of the university.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develops, cultivates, and maintains strategic relationships with state and local government agencies and officials, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, foundations, industry partners, nonprofit organizations, and other external stakeholders.
Serves as the primary liaison between the university and external public and private sector entities.
Identifies, evaluates, and pursues partnership opportunities that support the university’s mission, programs, and strategic goals.
Monitors federal, state, and local legislative, regulators, and funding developments affecting the university.
Develops and maintains productive relationships with legislators, legislative staff, agency officials, and government stakeholders.
Coordinates advocacy initiatives and informational outreach efforts that advance the university’s interests and priorities, consistent with university policies and applicable laws.
Prepares briefing materials, presentations, talking points, and impact reports for elected officials and external stakeholders.
Identifies funding opportunities from governmental agencies, foundations, corporations, and other external sources.
Represents the university to external agencies and constituents, including attendance at relevant local, regional, state, and national meetings.
Assists the Director of Governmental Relations on legislative initiatives.