Local Government Relations Director

Overview

Summary Serves as Tulane University’s primary representative and advocate on local issues, advancing the university’s priorities with the City of New Orleans, St. Tammany Parish, and other regional jurisdictions. Reporting to the Vice President for Government and Community Relations, the position builds and strengthens relationships with local elected officials, community leaders, and public agencies to ensure Tulane’s interests are effectively represented.

The position develops and implements comprehensive local government engagement strategies, advises senior university leadership on municipal and regional policy developments, and coordinates advocacy efforts that support Tulane’s academic, research, and community goals. The position also manages and leverages external consultants and government relations resources to enhance Tulane’s local advocacy efforts and visibility. This position requires sound judgment, strategic thinking, and discretion in managing high-level interactions and sensitive policy matters.

Occasional evening or weekend work is required to attend community meetings, hearings, and events.

• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills (writing samples required).
• Established relationships with current and former local policymakers and elected officials, particularly within the Mayor’s Office, City Council, and regional governments.
• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with elected officials, policy makers, and opinion leaders.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to attend City Council meetings, Planning Commission hearings, and other relevant local meetings or events, including evenings and weekends as needed.
• High degree of discretion, professionalism, and ethical standards.
• Familiarity with higher education systems, institutional priorities, and local government processes.

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university is required.
• 5+ years of experience working in or around local government, preferably in the New Orleans region.
• Demonstrated understanding of the higher education and research environment, including issues related to local policy, regulation, and institutional operations.

• Previous experience in high profile environment.
• Experience writing and designing electronic and print news-related communications.
• Experience working with social media, email marketing platforms, and web-based content management systems.