Assistant Vice President for External Affairs and Communications

About the Job

The Assistant Vice President for External Affairs and Communications in the Research and Innovation Office (RIO) will have responsibility for executing strategies on external engagement and communication that advances the research and innovation mission of the University. In close coordination with the Vice President for Research and Innovation (VPRI), this role is responsible for day-to-day-management, coordination, and relationship building with external partners (federal agencies, industry, academic institutions, and policymakers) to build and advance external funding opportunities for all research communities at the University of Minnesota. Reporting to the VPRI, the Assistant VP will be a thought partner, advising both proactively and reactively on strategic efforts and positions on various issues that impact the UMN's research enterprise. This role also oversees RIO's communications office, a key vehicle for building support for university research and showcasing UMN research, technology, and commercialization successes.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Partners with the VPRI in developing and managing effective working relationships with federal agencies, industry, and academic institutions.
Promotes the research and discovery enterprise to corporate and foundation leaders ensuring that RIO and the VPRI are meeting with key stakeholders; creates briefing materials as needed and conducts appropriate follow up meetings.
Manages and advances partnerships with contractors and think tanks to understand federal agency needs. Distributes this information to the UMN research community in a timely manner.
Monitors policy and regulatory activities of interest to the UMN research community and advises VPRI on engagement as needed.
Briefs the VPRI, senior leaders, and the UMN research community on solicitations and position documents released by federal agencies and other funding bodies, helping to identify opportunities for UMN research support.
Manages RIO's relationship with the Washington D.C.-based government relations consultants.
Develops federal appropriations requests in partnership with the research community, government relations, and industry partners to fund strategic research initiatives.
Serves as a key contributor to the RIO executive leadership team, partnering with the other AVPs and the VPRI to provide strategic advice on various initiatives and operational aspects.
Maintains consistently high standards of excellence, honesty, integrity, and professionalism with external and internal stakeholders.
Engages with national and international institutional partners to advance common research and educational goals by providing networking opportunities with funding agencies.
Develops and maintains consistent two-way communications with internal stakeholders, including collegiate and campus research leaders, research development professionals, and external relations staff.
Collaborates closely with counterparts within UMN Government Relations, University Relations, and corporate engagement teams, among others.
Partners with the VPRI to communicate a strategic plan that includes messaging and marketing research and development opportunities to facilitate new and expanded research partnerships.
Leads, manages, and mentors a high-performing communications team.

Qualifications

Qualifications
Master's degree
10 or more years of related professional experience including leadership experience, including experience supervising employees.
Successful track record cultivating and maintaining relationships with federal agencies and/or industry.
Expert knowledge of federal funding agencies such as the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, National Institutes of Health, and the National Science Foundation
Ability to advise the VPRI and the research community on strategies to facilitate dialogue with government and agency leaders.
Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex ideas into sharp, compelling messaging that is impactful and persuasive.
Outstanding analytical and leadership skills, with the ability to achieve results in a diverse, fast-paced, and complex environment.
Outstanding interpersonal skills
Ability to build long-term, collaborative relationships to benefit UMN's strategic research and partnership goals.
Experience with developing and implementing communications and/or marketing strategies at a large, complex organization.

Screening of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

About the Department

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) helps facilitate collaborative research designed to solve our most complex problems. We serve as a central resource for conducting, managing, and sponsoring research at the University of Minnesota and developing and bringing to market UMN innovations that improve people's lives. In addition, RIO offices oversee key areas of research compliance and administration and help to cultivate a culture of research integrity at the University.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications will be reviewed by the search committee beginning May 28, 2024, and on a rolling basis with priority given to those who apply early.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).