Director for Government Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement

The Director for Government Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement is responsible for managing the UA Division of Agriculture’s interaction with state and local government as well as agricultural industry stakeholders. The Director will build relationships to implement a proactive fundraising effort to secure sustainable support and advocacy for the Division’s policy priorities, research programs, outreach efforts and infrastructure. The Director will travel frequently to communicate with government officials, engage donors, cultivate relationships, solicit gifts, and maintain effective stewardship activities.

The Director for Government Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement serves as the executive liaison with government officials concerning issues and proposed legislation that may affect Division funding, education, research, operations and economic development initiatives. The individual selected is also responsible for a proactive fundraising effort for the Division of Agriculture in partnership with the UADA Director of External Relations, Bumpers College Director of Development and the 4H Foundation Director of Development. Legislative and fundraising priorities are coordinated through the Vice President. The Director for Government Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement reports to the Vice President for Agriculture and will be located in Little Rock.

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is a statewide campus, with faculty based on University campuses, at Research and Extension Centers and in every Arkansas county. It consists of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station (AES) and the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service (CES), and is home to almost 1200 employees. The Division was established in 1959 and is headed by the Vice-President for Agriculture. The Division headquarters is in Little Rock with the rest of the University of Arkansas System Administration. As an employer, the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural business/economics, political science, public administration, business administration, marketing or related discipline required;
• 5 years government relations, government agency or major gift fundraising experience required, with direct experience in interacting with elected officials, donors or stakeholders in an advocacy role. 
• Project management skills and excellent organizational and communications skills are required. 
• Capabilities in basic computer skills (word processing, spread sheets, Internet, email, budget systems) are required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Juris doctorate or master’s degree in agricultural business/economics, public administration, public policy, business administration, marketing or related discipline.
• Experience with higher-education fundraising activities.