Job Description
Position Summary:
The Vice President, Federal and External Relations, is responsible for leading UMMS’s federal advocacy efforts and serving as the primary liaison for external partnerships and community engagement. This role will oversee federal legislative strategies, represent UMMS at the highest levels of government, and manage relationships with elected officials and key external stakeholders. In partnership with the UMM Philanthropy Office, this role will also work closely with community organizations, the Shock Trauma Board of Visitors, and philanthropic entities to advance UMMS’s mission.
Key Responsibilities:
- Federal Advocacy & Government Relations
- Develop and execute federal legislative and advocacy strategies to support UMMS’s policy priorities, including healthcare funding and regulatory issues.
- Serve as UMMS’s primary federal representative before Congress, federal agencies, and national organizations to influence policy decisions.
- Establish and maintain bipartisan relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, and federal agencies.
- Monitor legislative and regulatory developments, providing intelligence and strategic recommendations to senior leadership.
- Identify and pursue federal funding opportunities aligned with UMMS’s priorities.
- Ensure all federal advocacy activities are compliant with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
- Board Relations & Executive Coordination
- Serve as the primary liaison to the Legislative Committee of the Shock Trauma Board of Visitors, ensuring alignment between board activities and UMMS priorities.
- In partnership with the VP of Shock Trauma and the UMM Philanthropy Office, develop board meeting agendas, prepare briefing materials, and coordinate strategic engagement with board members, senior executives, and community leaders.
- In partnership with the VP of Shock Trauma and the UMM Philanthropy Office, oversee logistics and planning for board meetings, retreats, and strategic planning sessions.
- Ensure compliance with board governance policies and oversee the preparation of official board materials, including resolutions and minutes.
- Community & External Affairs
- Build and maintain strategic relationships with government agencies, industry partners, and key community organizations.
- Represent UMMS and the Shock Trauma Center in community partnerships, healthcare initiatives, and regional policy discussions.
- Work with internal stakeholders, including philanthropy and marketing teams, to support outreach and community engagement efforts.
- With direction from the VP of Shock Trauma, oversee planning and execution of high-profile events and board meetings, and support the efforts of the UMM Philanthropy team’s initiatives benefiting the Shock Trauma Center.
- In partnership with the UMM Philanthropy team, cultivate potential donors, grant opportunities, and external funding sources for UMMS programs.
Skills & Abilities:
- Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills to work effectively with elected officials, executive leaders, board members, and community stakeholders.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to develop strategic advocacy initiatives.
- High-level project management and organizational skills to oversee multiple priorities and initiatives.
- Experience planning and executing large-scale board meetings, community outreach programs, and philanthropic events.
- Ability to navigate complex political and healthcare environments with diplomacy and discretion.