State Relations Officer

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY:

Maintains liaison on behalf of the Board of Regents and the Board Office with the universities, the executive branch, the general assembly, students and the general public. Maintains liaison with stakeholders in all areas of importance to the Iowa Board of Regents. Assists in the development and implementation of public policy as deem appropriate by the Board. Advances the Board of Regents’ legislative agenda. Serve as a project team leader or project member on special assignments as assigned by the Executive Director. Performs additional duties and responsibilities as qualifications permit.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Continuous Throughout the Year

1. Consult and coordinate with the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer and assist in preparation and dissemination of information about the Board and the institutions it governs
2. Serve as liaison between the Board Office and universities
3. Participate in regular conferences with the Board President, Executive Director, Board Office staff, and institutional heads. 
4. Assist the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer in advising the Board of Regents and institutional leadership in all aspects of governmental relations and public affairs.
5. Assist the Board, Board Office and institutions on the development of an annual legislative agenda.
6. Participate in the development and implementation of an advocacy network for Board of Regent issues utilizing participation of students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community.
7. Arrange visits to campuses for elected officials and other state officials including but not limited to the governor, state agency leaders, legislators and staff and attend meetings as necessary to communicate the Board’s interests and goals. 
8. Gain support of the public, alumni, key stakeholders and legislative leaders on behalf of the legislative priorities of the Board of Regents and maintain acquaintance with state legislators through personal visits in their home communities.
9. Assist the Board of Regents and the institutions with implementation and execution of programs and initiatives approved by the General Assembly
10. Serve as a project team leader or project member as assigned by the Executive Management Team.

During the Legislative Session 

1. Provide requested information to the executive branch, general assembly, stakeholders, and others as deemed appropriate. 
2. Work through, and consult with, the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer to coordinate daily activities during the legislative session.
3. Explain and interpret the Board’s legislative agenda and policies to the general assembly, executive officials, stakeholders and others.
4. Monitor all legislative activity regarding its potential impact on the Board of Regents, the institutions governed by the Board, and higher education in general.
5. Explain and interpret proposed legislation to the Board, Executive Director, the Chief Operating Officer, and the universities.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Supervision is received from the Executive Director, Board of Regents, State of Iowa.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

Functional supervision may be exercised over support staff or others in specific areas when serving as project team leader.