Job Description
Vice President, Government Relations
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
At Nova Southeastern University, we don’t just educate students; we shape the future of healthcare, research, innovation, and community impact. As a nationally recognized R1 research institution and one of the largest private universities in Florida, NSU is seeking a strategic, influential, and relationship-driven leader to serve as our next Vice President, Government Relations.
This executive leadership role will serve as the university’s chief strategist for federal, state, and local government affairs, advancing NSU’s legislative priorities, strengthening relationships with policymakers, and identifying opportunities that support institutional growth, research expansion, healthcare initiatives, and public funding opportunities.
About the Opportunity
Reporting directly to the President, the Vice President, Government Relations will serve as a trusted advisor to the President and Board of Trustees on legislative, regulatory, and political matters impacting the institution. This role will lead and execute a comprehensive advocacy strategy that aligns with NSU’s mission and strategic priorities while elevating the university’s visibility and influence across governmental and policy-making communities.
The ideal candidate is a highly connected and politically astute leader with deep experience navigating federal and state legislative environments, securing public funding opportunities, and building coalitions that drive meaningful outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute NSU’s federal, state, and local government relations strategy.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, government agencies, advocacy organizations, and external stakeholders.
- Lead major appropriations and public funding initiatives, including healthcare workforce development, research grants, and strategic funding opportunities.
- Advise executive leadership on legislative developments, regulatory changes, political risk, and public policy strategy.
- Represent NSU in external forums, coalitions, and policy discussions.
- Collaborate closely with university leadership, advancement, communications, research, and health-related divisions to align advocacy priorities and messaging.
- Oversee and manage external lobbying firms and government affairs consultants.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 12–15+ years of progressive experience in government relations, public policy, legislative affairs, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience engaging with federal and state government entities.
- Proven success managing external lobbying firms or advocacy partners.
- Strong understanding of legislative processes, appropriations, and regulatory environments.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience within higher education, academic healthcare systems, or research-intensive organizations.
- Established network of relationships with policymakers, agencies, and governmental leaders.
- Demonstrated success securing government funding and influencing public policy outcomes.
Why Join NSU?
NSU is a dynamic and innovative institution committed to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and community engagement. As an R1 Carnegie-classified university, NSU offers the opportunity to help shape policies and partnerships that directly impact education, healthcare, research, and the communities we serve.
We offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement plan options
- Tuition assistance and tuition waiver programs
- Paid time off and wellness initiatives
- Professional development opportunities
Work Environment & Travel
This role requires regular engagement with policymakers, agencies, and advocacy organizations and will involve local, state, and national travel, including occasional evenings and weekends.
Apply Today
Join a university that is transforming lives through education, healthcare, research, and innovation.
NSU offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
Explore this opportunity and apply through the NSU Careers Website.
NSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.