Executive Director of Government Relations

Position description

The anticipated hiring salary range is $150,000 – $185,000 per yearand is competitive and negotiable depending on the strength of qualifications. This is a CSU Management Personnel Plan (MPP) position.

The CSU system provides a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental and vision plans, membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), sick and vacation time, and 15 paid holidays a year. Eligible employees are also able to participate in the fee waiver education program. A summary of benefit information can be foundhere.

Job Summary

Reporting directly to the President, the Executive Director of Government Relations directs and oversees Fresno State’s governmental relations activities in consultation with the President, Vice President for Administration, campus leadership and in close coordination with the California State University (CSU) Chancellor’s Office, to plan and execute a comprehensive, proactive government relations strategy that advances Fresno State’s mission and goals with local, regional, state and federal elected officials.

The Executive Director is responsible for managing a wide range of complex and politically sensitive legislative, funding, and issue-oriented interactions as well as campus initiatives designed to advance the mission and priorities of the campus. In conjunction with senior campus leadership, this position shares responsibility for elevating the visibility and public funding for the campus. The Executive Director will advocate for Fresno State interests and build relationships with other organizations and entities whose interests are similar or whose functions affect Fresno State. Success in this role requires the ability to pivot quickly, remain flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment, and work collaboratively across the campus and in close coordination with colleagues throughout the CSU.

Key Qualifications

• Knowledge:
  • Detailed knowledge of the organization, functions, process and procedures of the California Legislature, Executive Branch, and/or state higher education.
  • Knowledge and experience in policy making and/or political arenas.
  • Knowledge of California’s educational systems including the California State University.
  • Knowledge of higher education current issues and challenges.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft software suite, including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal skills (i.e., high EQ), including successful negotiation and persuasion skills.
  • Strong oral presentation and public speaking skills.
  • Political acumen to enable sound, independent judgments leading to successful interactions with diverse internal and external constituents.
• Abilities:
  • Ability to analyze state and national trends, issues and political developments that could impact the university.
  • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing, facilitate open discussions and collaborate with and respond to multiple constituencies, and write clear and concise reports.

To view the full list of qualifications and job responsibilities, please click thePosition Descriptionbutton above.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in a legislative or higher education office.
  • Preferred Skills:
    • Master’s Degree in public policy, public administration or comparable graduate degree preferred.
    • A strong working relationship with key personnel in government who are in positions of influence on issues of importance to Fresno State is essential to perform.
    • Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to the Fresno State Vision Statement and the core values
    • Experience working with a diverse and multicultural population and performing community services.

Department Summary

With its local focus and global impact, Fresno State will be recognized as a model for advancing social, economic and environmental progress regionally, nationally and globally by providing an accessible, transformative education; conducting research on critical issues; and producing a generation of diverse leaders.

Deadline & Application Instructions

Applications received byNovember 23, 2025 will be given full consideration by the search committee.

• Applications received after that date will be forwarded at the request of the Hiring Manager and/or search committee.

Please click “Apply Now” to complete the employment application for California State University, Fresno. Interested applicants must complete the application and attach the following: 1) their most recent resumé/vitae, 2) a cover letter that addresses their specific qualifications and interest, and 3) contact information for three professional references.

Fresno State

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University’s mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Metropolitan Fresno, with a multi-ethnic population of over 527,000, is located in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. The campus is within driving distance of Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, San Francisco, Los Angeles, the Monterey Peninsula, beaches, sailing, lakes, and numerous ski resorts. Fresno boasts one of the most reasonable housing markets in California and offers a wide array of locally grown fruits and produce.

Application instructions

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