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NEOGOV · 3 weeks ago

Director of Government and Public Affairs

92688, CA

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

$227K/yr - $284K/yr

10+ years exp

Santa Margarita Water District is seeking a strategic and collaborative Director of Government and Public Affairs to lead the District’s legislative advocacy, grants strategy, public affairs, and communications divisions. This role provides executive-level leadership and serves as a trusted advisor to the District's executive team, overseeing various programs and engaging with stakeholders.

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Responsibilities

Lead and implement the District’s legislative policy strategy, advocacy and government relations

Manage the District’s legislative and regulatory affairs program, including analyzing legislation and advocating for District positions at the local, regional, state, and federal levels

Direct the District’s grants strategy, including identifying funding opportunities, coordinating grant applications, monitoring compliance, and maximizing external funding

Oversee the communications division, including media relations, branding, public outreach, and digital communications efforts

Serve as the District’s liaison with elected officials, public agencies, community organizations, and funding partners

Supervise and develop Communications staff, the Legislative Analyst, and the Grants Analyst

Prepare and present information to executive leadership and the Board of Directors related to external affairs, advocacy, and grants

Represent SMWD at regional, state, and national meetings, associations, and forums

Ensure compliance with applicable laws, including the Brown Act and Public Records Act

Qualification

Legislative advocacyGovernment relationsGrants strategyPublic affairsStrategic communicationsCommunity engagementMedia relationsLeadershipRelationship buildingWritten communicationVerbal communication

Required

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public relations, public administration, political science, business administration, communications or a related field

Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in public affairs, strategic communications, government relations, or a related field, including at least five (5) years in a management or leadership capacity

Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills with the ability to manage complex, high-visibility programs

Experience navigating public sector communications, legislative processes, and intergovernmental relations

Ability to build trusted relationships with elected officials, stakeholders, and community partners

Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public presentations and media interaction

Experience overseeing grants, funding programs, and compliance requirements

A collaborative leadership style with experience developing and mentoring professional staff