Granite State Management & Resources (GSM&R) has been helping students and parents plan and pay for college since 1962. Funds generated by the Organizations' student loan operation allows us to fulfill our important mission, and to grow programs that benefit the citizens of New Hampshire.
We are seeking an experienced senior-level professional to join us in Concord in the newly created role of VP Chief Strategy and Public Affairs Officer. As a key external-facing leader for the organization, this executive will manage policy, development, and communications while also leading strategy and innovation activities.
Working closely with the CEO, he/she will be tasked with formulating and implementing key elements of NHHEAF’s strategic plan with a focus on branding, communications, and advocacy, in service of advancing the organization’s goals and in collaboration with other leaders across the organization. Serving as an ambassador for NHHEAF, this person will represent the organization across a range of forums and audiences including colleges & universities, public officials, public forums, and media outlets.
Alongside the CEO, the incumbent will establish the vision, goals and strategy for NHHEAF’s government, community relations and advocacy efforts, and will develop a framework that will promote awareness and support of organizations efforts through coalitions, membership organizations, and lobbying support, ensuring that NHHEAF’s policy program aligns with its policy priorities, as defined by its strategic plan.
In conjunction with the Center for College Planning, the incumbent will assist in identifying grants, competitive federal, state, and local grant RFPs, and private donations to support expansion of the mission, and with CEO, will serve as lead fundraiser and a key liaison for donors and funders.
Candidate Requirements
Our ideal candidate will have ten or more years of experience working with nonprofit organizations, public sector initiatives, philanthropies and/or businesses, and will possess demonstrated success in overseeing external relations, specifically communications, government and community relations, and/or marketing. Proven success developing funding partnerships and/or generating revenue in a nonprofit or relevant for-profit setting is preferred.
Exceptional strategic thinking and problem solving skills, with the ability to influence an organization at all levels, and building consensus towards achieving its vision and goals are necessary for success in this position. Also needed is a track record of building and strengthening organizational structures that support highly effective teams, with a deep commitment to the recruitment, mentoring and retention of a diverse staff.
Most importantly, this candidate must have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, and a capacity to compellingly communicate NHHEAF’s vision and mission to governments, funders, communities and partners. Must be skilled in building consensus and collaboratively solving problems in a team oriented environment.
Travel within New Hampshire as well as nationally to attend industry conferences and other events is required as well as verification of a valid driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance.
This position is located on-site in Concord NH, and may work a varied schedule including evenings and weekends based upon business needs. Salary will be determined based upon experience.
GSM&R offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance, a generous ETO program, and 403(b) Retirement Plan with company match.
This position supports a federal contract that requires applicants to be able to obtain a Public Trust security clearance from the U.S. Government. This process will include a criminal and credit background check to determine eligibility and suitability for federal contract employment. US Citizenship may be required for a Public Trust security clearance to be considered.
