DESCRIPTION

UC San Diego’s Government and Community Relations (GCR) department supports the University’s mission to transform California and a diverse global society by: educating students; generating and disseminating knowledge and creative works; treating patients; and engaging in public service. GCR works as a strong, coherent, integrated, and efficient team that provides outstanding service to internal and external stakeholders. The department also implements comprehensive programs of relationship development, management, and engagement in support of strategic partnerships in order to safeguard and increase public resources in support of UC San Diego’s mission of education, research, healthcare, and service. GCR reports to the Associate Chancellor/Chief of Staff within the Chancellor’s Office VC Area.

Under the direction of the Executive Director of Federal Government and Research Relations, the Assistant Director, Health Federal Relations serves as a liaison between UC San Diego and members of Congress, their staffs, executive branch agencies, and other federal organizations. The Assistant Director monitors and evaluates complex legislative and regulatory health policy issues, maintains strong relationships with key federal stakeholders, and promotes UC San Diego Health Sciences priorities at the federal level.

The Assistant Director works with the Executive Director of Federal Government and Research Relations, in coordination with UC San Diego Health Sciences faculty, staff and leadership, to develop appropriate and effective strategies to communicate priorities, plans and policies to government officials and their staff. Tracks proposed legislation and regulations that could impact UC San Diego Health Sciences and determines and implements effective response and strategy. The Assistant Director works closely with UC San Diego Health Sciences leadership, including the Health System, the University of California, and relevant trade associations on government relations strategy to achieve overall goals.

The Assistant Director develops and initiates cultivation strategies and conducts outreach activities to help inform health policy and funding decisions at the federal level. Implements advocacy campaigns in support of UC San Diego and University of California initiatives through meetings, special event coordination, and other activities when appropriate. Works with legislators who represent a Southern California district; serve on committees whose decisions are critical to health, research, innovation, and education; represent constituents who work, learn and benefit from the University's presence; or count themselves among its alumni. Demonstrates the highest level of professionalism, attention to detail, prioritization, sound judgment; and promotes a culture of equity, inclusion, diversity,

• The position is based at the UC San Diego campus and occasionally travels to Washington, D.C.

• Please submit a cover letter along with a resume for a complete application.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Three (3) years experience in government relations at an academic medical center, higher education institution, or similar experience with an elected official, government agency, or relevant trade association.

• Thorough knowledge and understanding of the legislative process and how these activities can / will impact UC San Diego Health Sciences with strong skills in interpreting proposed legislation.

• Knowledge and understanding of the federal government, both the legislative and executive branches, including the processes for action by each branch and organization of Congress and federal agencies.

• Familiarity of political and health policy issues at the federal, state and/or local of government.

• Thorough research, analytical and critical thinking skills, including sound judgment and decision-making skills and skill to correctly identifying real and potential problems, advising management as required, and proposing effective strategic resolutions.

• Thorough knowledge of UC San Diego Health Sciences and its mission, goals, objectives, programs, achievements, infrastructure and issues of concern. Knowledge and understanding of the organization and functions of a major teaching and research university and the California higher education system.

• Experience and demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, effectively and professionally. Experience and demonstrated ability to interact with senior administrators, high-level officials, and others, at all levels of an organization, such as university, government, community groups. Thorough knowledge of basic concepts, principles, and procedures of building and maintaining effective relations with internal and external constituencies.

• Demonstrated competency and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or the equivalent experience or training.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

• Must be willing and able to travel.