Director For Public Policy

Job Description

DIRECTOR FOR PUBLIC POLICY

Req #: 240239 Department: UW INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Appointing Department Web Address: https://itconnect.uw.edu/uwit Job Location: Seattle - Other Posting Date: 10/22/2024 Closing Info: Open Until Filled Salary: $10,437 - $18,481 per month Other Compensation: Shift: First Shift Benefits: As a UW employee, you will enjoy generous benefits and work/life programs. For a complete description of our benefits for this position, please visit our website, click here. As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to impact lives on our campuses, in our state, and around the world. UW employees bring boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. The University of Washington is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, honoring your experiences, perspectives, and unique identities. Together, our community strives to create and maintain inclusive, equitable, and welcoming working and learning environments. In this role, you will contribute to making UW-IT a competitive advantage for the University, driving innovative technology solutions that support the University's mission and enhance its global impact.
The UW-IT Director for Public Policy plays a crucial role in establishing and nurturing effective relationships between UW-IT and various University technology initiatives. This position is instrumental in facilitating seamless communication, fostering robust collaboration, and strategically acquiring resources to propel the organization’s objectives. The Director’s efforts are critical in enhancing UW-IT’s capabilities, thereby significantly influencing broader technology efforts across the University. By actively engaging with key stakeholders, the Director ensures that these initiatives not only support but also drive the strategic goals of UW-IT and the University at large, reinforcing UW’s position as a leader in technology innovation and its impact on global academia.
This position is committed to supporting UW-IT projects and broader UW technology initiatives within the framework established by the University. To ensure comprehensive alignment with broader University objectives and to respect the defined roles of the UW Office of External Affairs and UW Advancement, this role will coordinate closely with these departments. Activities that intersect with external and public affairs or resource mobilization will proceed in full collaboration with the respective offices, thereby reinforcing our shared goals and enhancing the University’s strategic interests.
Position Complexities:
The Public Policy Director will have operational control over diverse teams and individuals based on the needs of specific projects. This includes coordinating cross-functional efforts and leading various project teams to ensure alignment with organizational goals and successful project execution. The Public Policy Director will provide strategic direction, mentorship, and support to team members involved in external relations and resource development activities. By leveraging their leadership and expertise, the Public Policy Director will ensure that all initiatives are effectively managed and meet the required standards and objectives, thereby playing a crucial role in the organization's success.
Specific examples illustrating these complexities include:
Strategic Alignment and Consultation:
Assisting strategic teams and initiatives by providing insights and support to better integrate new and emergent technologies across UW campuses. This involves consulting with academic departments and identifying barriers to enhance the effective use of technology.
Advising UW-IT leadership on the implications of emerging legislative trends and providing policy analyses, reports, and presentations to ensure informed decision-making within the University’s technology framework.
Serving as the primary point of contact for all legislative inquiries related to technology, fielding questions, and coordinating information requests to ensure accurate and unified responses that align with University policies and strategies.
Collaboration with Policy Stakeholders:
Building partnerships with local organizations and other universities to support technology initiatives that align with UW’s strategic goals, particularly those providing training and resources to underserved populations.
Facilitating discussions and alignment with higher education consortia on technology policy and funding strategies, ensuring that all activities are in close collaboration with UW’s External Affairs to maintain consistent state and federal advocacy efforts.
These examples highlight the role's complexities, emphasizing the need for a candidate who can navigate diverse challenges, build strategic relationships, and drive impactful initiatives for both UW-IT and broader University technology projects.
REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as political science, public administration, or related field or experience.

Minimum of seven years documented experience in the following:

Experience in government relations, resource development, or a related field.

Knowledge of government structures, policies, and procedures.

Demonstrated experience with grants and fundraising techniques.

Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

Proficiency in using relevant software applications and tools.
DESIRED:

Master’s degree in political science or public administration.

Experience working directly with Washington State legislators.

Experience with policy development and regulatory compliance.

Strong analytical and research skills.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Open office environment
Hybrid, minimum of two or more days in the office per week.
Application Process: The application process may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select “Apply to this position”. Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment, you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your “My Jobs” page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.

Committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, the University of Washington will honor your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming.

The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected] .

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law .

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