Associate Director, State Government Relations

About the role

The Associate Director, State Government Relations supports the Director in advancing the University of Maryland’s priorities with the Maryland General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, and state agencies. This position serves as the day‑to‑day liaison with legislators, executive officials, and agency staff, ensuring the university’s voice is heard on policy and budget matters.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor, analyze, and summarize state legislative proposals, regulations, and budget items affecting the university.
• Develop advocacy strategies, testimony, briefing materials, and policy documents.
• Build and maintain relationships with state lawmakers, legislative staff, and agency officials.
• Coordinate responses to state government requests involving university leadership, faculty, staff, and students.
• Represent the university at legislative hearings, agency meetings, and external coalitions.
• Collaborate with federal, local, and community‑engagement teams to ensure consistent government‑relations messaging.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum five (5) years of professional experience in legislative affairs or policy advocacy.
• Strong knowledge of Maryland state government structure, legislative processes, and public‑policy development.
• Familiarity with higher‑education issues and the impact of state policies on public universities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape public‑policy outcomes for a major research university.
• Collaborative environment with cross‑governmental teams.
• Professional growth within a respected public‑sector institution.