Job Description

Overview

Boston University (BU) Federal Relations seeks a Director, Policy Engagement who will catalyze opportunities for BU researchers and federal policymakers to exchange research and policy expertise. The Director translates research insights into policy ideas and develops relationships between scholars and practitioners. The Director reports to the Vice President of Federal Relations and collaborates with the BU's Government & Community Affairs, Research, and Public Relations Social Media offices to advance BU's federal priorities. BU is a leading private research and teaching institution with more than 37,000 students, 10,000 faculty and staff, 300 programs of study, and 130 research centers and institutes. Our scholars and students are at the forefront of innovation, and BU has been successful in competing for substantial federal research funding. Our students come from diverse backgrounds: nearly 1 in 5 are first-generation, and 19% of undergraduates receive Pell Grants.

Responsibilities

• Leverage knowledge of Capitol Hill, executive branch agencies, and Washington-based nongovernmental organizations to effectively connect BU experts with policymakers.
• Identify and develop opportunities for BU scholars to showcase their policy expertise through high-impact events, written and electronic communications, and meetings with Washington stakeholders.
• Create and deliver educational events and materials that guide members of the BU community as they engage meaningfully with policy practitioners and cultivate lasting partnerships.
• Build and strengthen relationships with Washington stakeholders to create new avenues for BU scholars and policymakers to collaborate.

Qualifications

A cover letter is required for consideration.

• Bachelor's degree with eight or more years of related experience.
• Superior understanding of how the federal government functions and an extensive network of federal contacts, with more than five years of experience working with Capitol Hill, the executive branch, think tanks, or Washington-based nongovernmental organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to build productive relationships with policymakers and nongovernmental stakeholders.
• Experience working with university-based scholars.
• Strong analytical, research, and writing skills, with the ability to translate complex research into actionable policy recommendations.
• Ability to take initiative, problem solve, and work independently with good judgment about when to seek direction.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to express ideas clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing.
• Capacity to juggle different projects simultaneously, with consistent accuracy, follow-through, and timely completion of projects.
• Ability to recognize and protect confidential information and exercise tact, good judgment, and diplomacy in handling delicate situations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with and passion for evidence-based policymaking and translating research ideas into actionable policies.
• Experience with and enthusiasm for working with people with a wide array of backgrounds, identities, life experiences, and communication styles.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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