The appointment will take effect on or before Aug. 11. Hoffman, 42, who was recommended for the post by UC President Mark Yudof, will receive an annual salary of $370,000.
As senior vice president at UC, Hoffman, a former federal prosecutor, will report directly to Yudof and have responsibility at the system office for communications, advocacy, and governmental relations at the state and federal levels.
In a statement, Yudof said, "We are extraordinarily fortunate to have secured Alan Hoffman's leadership for the external relations activities of the UC system. One of the goals I have established as president is a reinvigorated external relations program that strengthens the university's relationships and educates all Californians about the importance of the university's work to their families and to the future of the state."
Yudof said, "Alan's strategic vision, sound judgment, high standards and good humor suit him very well for the responsibilities awaiting him in the UC system."
UC officials say the senior vice president position establishes strategy and oversees coordination with campuses in the implementation of communications, advocacy and governmental relations activities for the UC system, with the goal of building understanding and support for the university's mission of teaching, research and public service.
Hoffman said in a statement, "I am honored to join one of the world's leading universities and look forward to helping foster closer connections between the institution and the people it serves."
He said, "The work of UC affects the lives of people around the globe and in every community in California. Its success is dependent upon public understanding of its mission, open dialogue with policymakers and constituents, and responsiveness to the needs of the public. I look forward to working with President Yudof and my colleagues throughout the UC system in pursuit of those objectives."
Hoffman's previous experience includes service in the White House as a staff member on the President's Task Force on National Health Care Reform and as a special assistant to Hillary Rodham Clinton during the 1992 presidential campaign and transition.
UC officials say that because Hoffman, who's a native of Philadelphia, wishes to maintain an existing family home in the Los Angeles area, his appointment allows for up to one day per week of telecommuting.
Per university policy, he will receive an annual automobile allowance of $8,916 and will be eligible for reimbursement of relocation expenses associated with establishing housing in the Oakland area and for participation in the university's home loan program.
UC officials say that as an exception to normal policy, which was approved by the Board of Regents, he will receive reimbursement of "reasonable costs" associated with temporary accommodations in the Oakland area, not to exceed $25,000 over a six-month period.
Hoffman also will receive standard pension and health and welfare benefits and standard senior management benefits, including senior manager life insurance, executive business travel insurance, executive salary continuation for disability, a monthly contribution of 5 percent of base salary to the senior management supplemental retirement benefit program, and an administrative fund for official entertainment and other purposes that comply with university policy.
