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Vice President for Government Affairs

Job Number: 24867
Functional Area: Administration
Department: Office of the President
School Area: President & Chairman of the Corporation

Employment Type: Full-Time
Employment Category: Exempt
Visa Sponsorship Available: No
Schedule:

Posting Description

VICE PRESIDENT FOR GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, serves as the President’s senior advisor on all matters related to MIT’s engagement with the federal and local government. Responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic plan for government relations that align with the Institute’s strategic goals and advance educational, research, and policy interests. Work with the President’s senior team to develop an overall strategy that supports MIT’s mission and values, taking into account MIT’s lobbying efforts, communications work, and legal strategies. Build and cultivate relationships with federal officials, policy makers, and other stakeholders. Advise MIT’s leadership team on federal legislative and regulatory issues in areas such as research policy, immigration, and federal funding. Oversee the community relations function and ensure MIT’s involvement in regional initiatives. Represent the Institute in public forums, legislative hearings, and community events, and serve as a key spokesperson. Establish metrics to assess the effectiveness of the Institute’s federal and local engagement.

Job Requirements
REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, public policy, higher education administration, or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred. Minimum 15 years combined experience in higher education administration, government, public affairs, or a closely related field. Prior experience working with or in the nonprofit or education sector preferred. In-depth knowledge of government processes and structures, policy-making, and legislative affairs. Exceptional leadership and management skills. Ability to represent the Institute in forums with diplomacy, skill, and patience. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills and public speaking/presentation ability. Excellent collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across MIT to align government strategies with broader institutional goals.