External & Government Relations Manager

Position Summary:

The External & Government Relations Manager serves as AUIB's primary liaison with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and private sector institutions across Iraq. This role is pivotal in fostering collaborative partnerships, securing institutional support, and advocating for AUIB's interests in alignment with national higher education policies and private sector initiatives. The Manager will develop and maintain strategic relationships that enhance the university's reputation, ensure a favorable regulatory environment, and advance AUIB's strategic goals for academic growth, accreditation, partnerships, and societal impact.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Establish, manage, and enhance relationships with relevant government ministries and departments (education, higher education, research, culture, regional/local government), regulatory bodies, accreditation agencies, and other public sector stakeholders in Iraq and possibly abroad.
2. Monitor, analyze, and report on national and regional legislation, regulations, policies, and political developments that may impact the higher education sector, the university's operations, funding, accreditation, partnerships, and strategy.
3. Represent the university in governmental, regulatory, community, and industry forums, meetings, and events, act as the institution's point of contact for external stakeholders.
4. Develop and maintain a stakeholder map/database of key external contacts (government officials, embassies, consortia, NGOs, private sector partners, regional institutions).
5. Manage strategic external partnerships (public-private partnerships, joint projects, MoUs with government or quasi-government bodies, regional development initiatives) that support the university's objectives.
6. Execute and manage external events, visits, and delegations involving government or public sector representatives, including campus visits, delegations, roundtables, conferences, and official ceremonies.
7. Work with internal university departments (academic affairs, research, student affairs, communications, admissions, legal) to ensure alignment, coordination, and timely response to external/regulatory requirements and opportunities.
8. Manage external communications relating to government and regulatory matters, in coordination with the university's communications or public relations unit: press releases, liaison with media, official statements.
9. Oversee compliance with applicable laws, regulations, government-reporting requirements, and maintain appropriate records of external/government activities and engagements.
10. Train/advise internal staff on engaging with government/regulatory interfaces and build awareness of the external environment within the university.
11. Budget planning, tracking, and reporting for the external & government relations function or related campaigns/projects.
12.  Perform additional duties as assigned by the line manager and special projects as needed.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Strategic Insight: Understands government structures, regulations, and higher education dynamics.
• Leadership & Collaboration: Able to lead initiatives, manage projects, and work effectively across teams.
• Communication Skills: Strong negotiation, interpersonal, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Organizational & Analytical Skills: Capable of managing multiple priorities, research, and data-driven decision-making.
• Professionalism & Integrity: Diplomatic, trustworthy, adaptable, and committed to confidentiality and institutional values.

Education and Experience:

• Required Education: Master's degree in public policy, Public Administration, International Relations, Law, or a related field.
• Years of Relevant Experience: Minimum of 5 years in government relations, public affairs, or higher education, preferably within Iraq or the Middle East. 
• Specific Skills or Expertise: Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills; proven ability to engage with government and academic stakeholders; proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with Oracle HCM. 
• Personal Attributes: Diplomatic, professional, and trustworthy, with a high level of integrity, adaptability, and commitment to AUIB's values of transparency, collaboration, and service excellence.

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