Job Title: Executive Director of External Affairs & Strategy
Reports to: President
Location: EC3 West Campus
Status: Exempt
Date: 2/2025
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
This list is meant to be representative and not exhaustive in nature. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive external affairs strategy that aligns with the college's mission and strategic plan.
- Serve as a primary spokesperson and advocate for the college with media, community organizations, policymakers, and other external stakeholders.
- Lead integrated efforts to foster meaningful relationships with key community, government, and industry partners.
Foundation and Advancement
- Provide strategic direction for the college's foundation, overseeing donor engagement, fundraising campaigns, and philanthropic initiatives to secure essential resources.
- Cultivate relationships with donors, alumni, and community partners to enhance financial support for the college.
Marketing and Communications
- Oversee all branding, media, social media, marketing, and communications strategies to elevate the college's reputation and visibility.
- Ensure consistency across all communications and marketing materials and channels.
- Oversee the development and maintenance of the college's brand identity.
Government Relations
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local, state, and federal officials to advocate for policies and funding that support the college's mission.
- Monitor legislative developments and provide strategic advice to senior leadership on policy matters affecting the college in collaboration with the Commission of Community College.
Policy, Institutional Research, and Strategic Planning
- Lead the Institutional Research team to ensure the collection, analysis, and reporting of institutional data to inform decision-making and support strategic initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with accreditation, state, and federal reporting requirements.
- Utilize data analytics to assess the effectiveness of public affairs initiatives and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Serve as a key policy advisor, developing and implementing internal and external strategies to meet strategic priorities.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree in public affairs, communications, education, business, or a related field preferred.
- 5+ years of senior-level experience in public affairs, communications, or a related field.
- Proven track record of leadership in managing multiple functional areas (foundation, marketing, communications, government relations, institutional research, and/or community engagement).
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and donors.
- Experience developing and executing strategic plans to achieve organizational goals.
- Strong understanding of data analytics and institutional research to inform decision-making.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of public affairs work.
Skills & Attributes
- Visionary thinker with the ability to anticipate trends and emerging opportunities.
- Inspirational leader who motivates and develops high-performing teams.
- Collaborative and approachable style, fostering strong partnerships across departments.
- Passion for the mission of community colleges and a deep understanding of their role in education and workforce development.
- Exceptional communication, storytelling, and presentation skills.
