Director of Government Relations

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is dedicated to preparing future leaders, building great communities, and solving critical issues. With a guiding institutional strategic plan titled “The Power of CSUSM,” the University is launching some of the most exciting projects in CSUSM’s history. Central to this growth is the future Hunter Hall—a building for integrated sciences and engineering, fueled by a transformational $10 million investment from Hunter Industries. This facility will allow CSUSM to meet the region’s demand for STEM talent through new engineering majors and expanded enrollment. Most recently, the California State University (CSU) and CSUSM announced the launch of the CSU National Center for Social Mobility at CSUSM, a first‑of‑its‑kind initiative designed to advance the upward mobility of students nationwide.

CSUSM consistently ranks in the top 1% nationally on College Net’s Social Mobility Index. The University’s commitment to student success is reflected in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings, where it tied for 23rd among Western universities. From undergraduate research to community‑based internships to in‑demand and innovative workforce degrees, CSUSM is focused on expanding educational access, student success, and opportunity, ensuring that the 17,000 students enrolled engage in meaningful, innovative learning.

As a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), CSUSM serves a student body where over 50% who identify as Latinx and 55% are the first in their families to earn a degree. CSUSM is highly connected and responsive to the needs of local communities and deeply connected to San Diego, Orange, and Southwest Riverside counties. An anchor institution in the region, CSUSM sees 80% of its graduates remain in the region, driving the local economy and weaving the principles of inclusive excellence into the regional fabric. Learn more at csusm.edu.

LEADERSHIP & CULTURE

Nearing the seventh year of her presidency at CSUSM, Dr. Ellen Neufeldt continues to work in partnership with faculty, staff, and the community to expand CSUSM’s reach and impact. This position will report to the Vice President of University Advancement.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary – $115,000 – $130,000 DOE/NEG
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 24 paid days off
• 13 paid holidays and 1 floating holiday

LOCATION

This role will primarily be in‑person, with some flexibility for remote work. The office is located on the main campus of CSUSM, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos, CA 92096.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Government Relations (DGR) is a high‑profile, strategic position charged with designing and guiding CSUSM’s comprehensive government relations strategy. Reporting to the Vice President of University Advancement and operating with significant autonomy, the DGR elevates CSUSM’s standing as a trusted thought partner for elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels. Responsible for navigating complex legislative and budget cycles, the DGR proactively influences policy that directly affects CSUSM and its mission of social mobility and equity. A master relationship builder, the DGR works in lockstep with the California State University (CSU) System to implement regional and national advocacy plans, positioning CSUSM as an essential regional resource and a leader in conversations that align CSUSM’s regional impact with the broader legislative agenda of the CSU system. This is a highly collaborative role, working in close partnership with CSUSM’s President, senior leadership, and the broader campus community—including faculty, staff, and alumni. The DGR provides strategic leadership and advisory support to the Advocacy Committee of the Foundation Board, ensuring the University’s most influential stakeholders are effectively engaged in advancing CSUSM’s legislative goals. Serving as a vital bridge to the next generation of leaders, the DGR acts as a strategic advisor to the Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) Lobby Corps, ensuring advocacy efforts are integrated and inclusive across all major issue areas. The DGR will also serve on several other high‑level, campus‑wide committees.

Year one priorities:

• Expand Regional Influence: Cultivate trusted, high‑visibility relationships with elected officials and staff throughout San Diego County, Southwest Riverside County, and South Orange County, raising awareness of CSUSM’s value and positioning CSUSM as a primary strategic thought partner.
• Secure Growth Funding: Identify and leverage local, state, and federal funding opportunities to directly support CSUSM’s strategic priorities and long‑term expansion initiatives.
• Advance Sponsored Legislation: Collaborate with campus and CSU leaders to identify and champion opportunities for sponsored legislation that address institutional needs and elevate CSUSM’s mission.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Advocacy & Legislative Influence

• Develop and execute a strategic plan that expands CSUSM’s influence and evolves the department to meet the needs of a growing university.
• Track legislative activities at the local, state, and federal levels—specifically across San Diego, Orange, and Riverside counties—that impact university operations, research initiatives, and fundraising efforts.
• Deliver timely updates and recommendations to the President’s Administrative Team (PAT) and University Advancement (UA) regarding legislative trends, budget cycles, and public sentiment.
• Advocate for policies and funding that align with strategic objectives, philanthropic campaign goals, and key research projects.

Relationship Management & Representation

• Build and sustain trusted partnerships with elected officials, their staff, and committees; ensure CSUSM is viewed as a strategic thought partner and essential regional resource.
• Represent CSUSM on external boards and committees, ensuring the President and senior leaders are connected at the highest levels of government.
• Coordinate advocacy in lockstep with the CSU Chancellor’s Office, Federal Relations, and neighboring campuses (SDSU and CSUSB) to advance shared priorities.
• Provide strategic leadership and staffing support for the CSUSM Foundation Board Advocacy Committee.

Strategic Communications & Events

• Create compelling briefing materials, including talking points, legislative summaries, one‑pagers, and reports to advance CSUSM’s agenda.
• Collaborate with the UA Marketing and Communications Director to develop social media strategies and a web presence that amplify CSUSM’s reputation for social mobility and equity.
• Plan and implement governmental visits and campus tours (San Marcos, Temecula, and Chula Vista) and provide strategic direction for the National Social Mobility Symposium.
• Support efforts to invite and host elected officials and government agencies at campus events.

Campus & Community Integration

• Incorporate students, staff, faculty, and alumni into advocacy efforts; serve as an advisor to the CSUSM Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) Lobby Corps and provide advocacy and elections training for the campus community.
• Build bridges with community colleges and regional organizations that share CSUSM’s mission of serving diverse student populations.
• Manage highly sensitive and confidential information with total professional integrity.

BACKGROUND PROFILE

• A professional with a deep understanding of the legislative process and a proven ability to navigate complex political landscapes, build high‑stakes partnerships, and advance an organization’s mission at the local, state, and federal levels.
• A dedicated team player committed to the University’s mission and vision, fostering cross‑divisional support and assisting colleagues in reaching both professional and personal goals.
• A forward‑thinking, strategic problem solver who identifies future challenges, addresses difficult issues with courage, and implements methods to improve individual and team performance.
• An exceptional communicator and public speaker who can build rapport quickly while navigating sensitive issues with the tact and diplomacy required for high‑level advocacy and engagement.
• Demonstrates a proven track record and steadfast commitment to advancing CSUSM's goals in the areas of diversity, equity, and a sustainable, inclusive workforce.