Director, Government & Community Relations
Location: Worcester · Type: Full time · Posted: 2026-09-08 ·
Reference: R0003766
JOB TITLE
Director, Government & Community Relations
LOCATION
Worcester
DEPARTMENT NAME
Government & External Relations
DIVISION NAME
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI
JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
The Director of Government and Community Relations is responsible for managing
the organization's relationships with local and state officials, as well as
community stakeholders. This role is pivotal in advocating for the
organization's interests, building strategic partnerships, and ensuring
compliance with relevant regulations. The Director will serve as a liaison
between the organization, elected officials, community leaders, and advocacy
groups, fostering positive relationships to support organizational goals.
This position reports to the Chief Governmental Relations Officer.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Government Relations:
Develop and execute strategies for government engagement at local and
state levels.
Monitor legislative and regulatory issues that may impact the organization
and provide regular updates to leadership.
Advocate for policy positions that align with the organization's mission,
preparing policy briefs, testimony, and other advocacy materials.
Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, regulatory
bodies, and government agencies.
Assist the Chief Governmental Relations Officer with federal and state
activities as needed.
Advocacy & Compliance:
Track, analyze, and influence public policy developments that affect the
organization.
Ensure the organization complies with lobbying, reporting, and other
regulatory requirements related to government relations activities.
Coordinate advocacy campaigns and mobilize resources to support the
organization's public policy goals.
Community Relations:
Lead the organization's community outreach efforts, building partnerships
with local leaders, civic groups, and community organizations.
Represent the organization at community meetings, public hearings, non-
profit boards, and events to strengthen relationships with key
stakeholders.
Develop and manage community engagement programs, including events,
sponsorships, and partnerships that enhance the organization's public
presence.
Respond to community concerns and inquiries, ensuring a timely and
effective resolution to issues.
Stakeholder Engagement:
Identify and engage key stakeholders across sectors, including business,
education, nonprofit, and government.
Collaborate with internal departments to align community and government
relations activities with organizational goals.
Build coalitions and partnerships to support initiatives and drive
positive outcomes for both the organization and the local community.
Strategic Communications:
Oversee external communications related to community and government
relations, ensuring consistent messaging and branding.
Prepare briefings, speeches, and presentations for executive leadership on
public policy and community relations topics.
Manage crisis communication strategies in collaboration with the public
relations team to address issues impacting the organization.
Performs all other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by
the supervisor.
Qualifications :
Bachelor's degree in a related field.
5+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a
related role, preferably within higher education. Previous work in
government is a plus.
Proven experience building and maintaining relationships with government
officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
Demonstrated knowledge of legislative processes and policy development at
local, state, and federal levels.
Salary Grade 8: $71,800 - $88,740 (depending on experience)
Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity;
generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the
range.
Compensation at WPI
FLSA STATUS
United States of America (Exempt)
WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive
consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion,
sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or
disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will
contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem
solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to
maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.
