Director, Military, Aerospace and Defense Initiatives

The Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) is seeking a Director, Military, Aerospace and Defense Initiatives to provide specialized guidance on policies and strategies that promote partnerships and collaborations between Arizona's public universities and the Department of Defense (DoD), military entities, and defense-related industries. This role requires a deep understanding of defense policies, military relations, and university collaboration with federal defense agencies and defense related industries. The Director plays a key role in positioning the Arizona university system as a leading partner in defense-related research, innovation, and economic development.

The Director provides specialized subject-matter expertise and strategic advice to the Arizona Board of Regents. The role is focused on analyzing research and data to inform policy decisions that align with the board's priorities and goals. The Director is expected to stay abreast of regulatory changes and emerging trends in their area of specialization, using this information to guide policy development and strategic recommendations for the board and university leadership. They also facilitate partnerships and collaborations between the university system and relevant external stakeholders.

This is a full-time position with health and dental benefits. This position will be enrolled in the Arizona State Retirement System. Tuition reduction benefits to Arizona public universities are available to employees and their dependents. For a full list of available benefits, click here.

This position will be working in person at the board office Monday through Friday and may be eligible for a partial remote work schedule, subject to the needs of the office.

The Arizona Board of Regents is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Strategic Military Analysis and Research:

• Conduct targeted research on military-related funding, policy changes, and strategic opportunities for collaboration between Arizona's universities and the defense sector.
• Assess current military-related initiatives across the university system and identify gaps or areas for expansion.
• Track federal legislation, requests for information, requests for proposals, and grant opportunities that could enhance university involvement in defense-related research and development.

Military Policy Development and Recommendations:

• Provide strategic advice to the Board of Regents on how to enhance collaborations with military and defense stakeholders, including the Department of Defense.
• Draft and recommend policies that align university research and engagement strategies with the needs of the defense industry, military personnel, and federal defense agencies.
• Help shape initiatives related to defense innovation, research, and technology transfer in collaboration with university departments.

Engagement and Relationship Building with Defense Stakeholders:

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key defense stakeholders, including military personnel, defense contractors, and federal defense agencies.
• Organize special convenings and events that foster collaboration between universities and defense partners.
• Facilitate partnerships with Arizona's defense-related industries and advocate for university research projects that align with defense priorities.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong understanding of policy development processes and legislative frameworks relevant to higher education and public sector organizations.
• Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies for conducting thorough analyses and synthesizing information.
• Excellent analytical abilities to assess complex issues, identify trends, and translate data into actionable insights for decision-making.
• Exceptional writing skills to create clear and concise reports, policy briefs, and presentations that effectively communicate findings and recommendations.
• Strong interpersonal skills for building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders, facilitating collaboration and engagement.
• Effective presentation skills, capable of conveying complex information in an engaging and understandable manner to various audiences.
• Strategic thinking ability to critically evaluate policy implications and provide recommendations aligned with institutional goals.
• Experience in working collaboratively with teams and cross-functional groups to develop comprehensive policies and initiatives.
• Adaptability to adjust strategies and approaches in response to evolving trends, challenges, and stakeholder needs.
• Detail-oriented mindset, ensuring accuracy and compliance when conducting research and drafting policy-related documents.
  
  

• Master's degree (or higher) in a relevant field such as public policy, law, or a discipline related to the advisor's area of specialization.
• Prior service as a senior field grade officer (O-4 or higher), senior Department of Defense official, or equivalent, with proven leadership experience.
• 5-10+ years of experience in a related role, with deep knowledge of specific regulatory areas relevant to the board's work.
• Proven track record of delivering strategic, data-driven policy advice.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence senior leadership.