Careers at Drexel

Job Summary

The Executive Director of Government & Community Relations will lead the University’s federal government relations portfolio and support state and local engagement. This senior leader will be responsible for shaping and advancing Drexel’s public policy agenda in Washington, D.C., cultivating relationships with federal agencies and congressional offices, and positioning the University as a national thought leader in research, innovation, workforce development, and civic impact. The role also collaborates closely with internal stakeholders and community partners to ensure alignment between institutional priorities and external engagement efforts. At this time, this position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Essential Functions

• Federal Government Relations 
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive federal relations strategy that advances Drexel’s academic, research, clinical, and community-impact priorities.
  • Serve as Drexel’s principal liaison to Congress, federal agencies, national associations, and higher education policy networks.
  • Monitor federal legislative, regulatory, and policy developments; analyze impacts and recommend institutional responses.
  • Identify and pursue federal funding opportunities in collaboration with the Office of Research & Innovation, academic colleges, and senior leadership.
  • Prepare federal briefing materials, appropriations requests, policy memos, testimony, and strategic communications for senior leaders.
  • Coordinate faculty and leadership engagement with federal policymakers and stakeholders; facilitate campus visits, hearings, and briefings.
• Government & Community Engagement 
  • Support alignment and coordination between federal, state, and local government strategies.
  • Partner with internal and external stakeholders to strengthen Drexel’s role in economic development, civic innovation, and community partnerships—particularly in West Philadelphia.
  • Represent the University at government, civic, and regional development meetings, coalitions, and events.
  • Collaborate with communications teams to amplify Drexel’s impact in public policy and community engagement. 
• Strategic Leadership & Internal Collaboration
  • Advise senior leadership on public policy issues affecting higher education, research funding, healthcare, innovation, and workforce development.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with faculty experts to leverage Drexel’s thought leadership in national policy dialogues.
  • Oversee compliance related to federal lobbying, reporting requirements, and advocacy guidelines.
  • Manage consultants, associations, and strategic partners supporting government relations activities. 

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in public policy, political science, law, public administration, or a related field or the equivalent combination of education and work experience. (Please review the Equivalency Chart for additional information.)
• Minimum 10 years of experience in government relations, public policy, congressional affairs, or federal agency roles.
• Demonstrated success influencing federal policy or appropriations, preferably in higher education, research, healthcare, innovation, or related sectors.
• Strong understanding of federal legislative and regulatory processes.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven ability to build and sustain relationships in Washington, D.C., and across complex organizations.
• Ability to travel regionally (primarily to Washington DC).
• Valid Driver's License.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Location

• University City - Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information

This position is classified as Exempt, grade Q. Compensation for this grade ranges from $162,030 - $243,040 per year. Please note that the offered rate for this position typically aligns with the minimum to midrange of this grade, but it can vary based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.

Applicants are encouraged to explore the Professional Staff salary structure and Compensation Guidelines & Policies for more details on Drexel’s compensation framework. For information about benefits, please review Drexel’s Benefits Brochure.

Special Instructions to the Applicant

Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

A review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.

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