Director of Governmental Affairs
Director of Governmental Affairs
Posting Details
POSTING INFORMATION
Internal Title
Director of Governmental Affairs
Position Type
Unclassified
Faculty / Non-Faculty / Administration
Administration
Pay Band
Level
Department
President
Job Purpose
Director of Governmental Affairs works closely with the President and his Executive Team to coordinate activities related to the College of Charleston with members of the South Carolina General Assembly and other government officials at the federal, state, and local levels. Director builds strategic and proactive communications across the state, establishes and maintains relationships with elected and appointed officials, and serves as a liaison between the College, relevant government organizations, and their staff. Director is responsible for developing an annual legislative agenda and strategy in close collaboration with the President, Executive Team, and Board of Trustees and will work with internal and external partners to implement that strategy. Will work closely with external lobbying firms as necessary and appropriate.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree and five years of high-level experience working with government officials are required. A demonstrated understanding of issues related to higher education is highly preferred. Candidates with an equivalent combination of experience and/or education are encouraged to apply.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Established relationships with current members of the South Carolina House and Senate and their respective staff. Understanding of federal legislative relations, community relations and how local and federal government relations efforts work closely with state relationships and strategies. Must have excellent oral and written communication skills and a demonstrated history as a team player. Proven ability to work closely with leadership/executive teams in establishing and strengthening legislative relationships. Experience working with board leadership structures.
Additional Comments Regarding Position
Position will ideally be based in Columbia.
Regular travel and afterhours work during peak times is required.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please complete the application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.
*Salary is commensurate with education/experience which exceeds the minimum requirements.
Offers of employment are contingent upon a successful background check.
All applications must be submitted online https://jobs.cofc.edu.
Salary
*Commensurate with education and experience
Posting Date
08/15/2025
Closing Date
08/29/2025
Benefits
- Insurance: Health/Dental/Vision
- Life Insurance
- Paid Leave: Sick/Annual/Parental
- Retirement
- Long Term Disability
- Paid Holidays
- Free CARTA Bus Service
- Employee Tuition Assistance Program (ETAP)
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Full Benefits Package – Click Here
Open Until Filled
No
Posting Number
2025116
EEO Statement
The College of Charleston is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any individual or group on the basis of sex, gender (including gender identity and/or expression), pregnancy, race, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, and other classifications protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information, please visit eop.cofc.edu.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.cofc.edu/postings/17047
Job Duties
Job Duties
Activity
Represents the interests of the College of Charleston with elected representatives of the South Carolina General Assembly and members of their staff, as well as the Office of the Governor, state constitutional officers, federal legislative and executive partners and local elected officials and governments. Leads, counsels, and coordinates federal, state, and local government relations matters on behalf of the College. Builds relationships with lawmakers and officials at all levels and monitors and routinely reports on any impactful legislation from start to finish.
Essential or Marginal
Essential
Percent of Time
30
Activity
Advises and counsels the President, Board of Trustees, and Executive Team of the College to identify legislative priorities, strategies, and opportunities. Provides regular, comprehensive updates and assessments in anticipation of legislative efforts and initiatives.
Essential or Marginal
Essential
Percent of Time
30
Activity
Attends state and local legislative committee meetings to monitor progress of impactful legislation, and provides comprehensive analysis of effects and impacts to College officials.
Essential or Marginal
Essential
Percent of Time
15
Activity
Provides support to legislators in formulating responses to constituent inquiries concerning the College of Charleston. Keeps elected officials and their respective staffs informed and aware of key College of Charleston activities. Advises President and Executive Team on community issues that concern or interest legislators, and work with appropriate members of the College’s leadership and Board to facilitate resolutions.
Essential or Marginal
Essential
Percent of Time
15
Activity
Leads special projects as assigned by the President or Board of Trustees.
Essential or Marginal
Essential
Percent of Time
10