The Lewis Group of Companies · 1 week ago
Vice President - Policy & Community Affairs
Upland, CA
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
$200K/yr - $200K/yr
10+ years expThe Lewis Group of Companies, one of the nation’s largest privately held real estate developers, is actively seeking a Vice President for its Southern California project development team. The role involves leading public policy initiatives, engaging with various stakeholders, and supporting entitlement and permitting efforts for major projects while navigating the political and regulatory landscape affecting development.
Building MaterialReal Estate
Hiring Manager
David Draper
Responsibilities
Lead the development and execution of strategies related to land use, housing, environmental, and economic development policy
Monitor, analyze, and influence proposed legislation, ballot initiatives, and regulatory actions at the local and state levels
Represent the company with governmental agencies, public officials, trade associations, and industry groups
Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, government staff, and community stakeholders
Participate in industry boards and committees (e.g., Building Industry Association, California Business Roundtable)
Partner with development, legal, construction, and related teams to support entitlement, permitting, and zoning processes
Assist in navigating approvals and regulatory frameworks, including CEQA, SB 330, general plans, housing mandates, and climate-related regulation
Engage with city councils, planning commissions, and community groups to advocate for project approvals
Integrate entitlement and political strategy with community outreach initiatives
Identify political, regulatory, and development risks and formulate mitigation strategies
Advise executive leadership on the regulatory and political environment affecting land development in California
Oversee government affairs initiatives and manage consultants, lobbyists, and legal advisors
Support public outreach and communications efforts to build support for development projects
Participate in civic and industry organizations to promote the company’s profile and policy priorities
Align messaging with communications and PR teams to ensure consistency and clarity
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree required; Master's or J.D. strongly preferred (public policy, law, urban planning, political science, or related field)
10+ years of progressive experience in government affairs, public policy, or land use law, preferably aligned with real estate development in California
Deep knowledge of California land use law, CEQA, state housing mandates, and regional/local planning processes
Demonstrated ability to secure entitlements, influence policy, and navigate political systems
Strong relationships with government agencies, elected officials, and planning/community departments across key California jurisdictions
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills; comfortable translating complex regulatory issues to diverse audiences
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities effectively
Reliable transportation and a driver's license are required for traveling to company projects and land sites
Benefits
Monthly auto allowance
Variety of benefits plans
401k savings plan with immediate vesting and company match
$100/month cellphone reimbursement
Paid holidays
Vacation time
Continued training
Advancement opportunities
Company
The Lewis Group of Companies
The Lewis Group of Companies is a real estate company that offers acquisition, development and management services.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
John Goodman
CEO
C
Chris Engquist
Chief Financial Officer
Recent News
2025-04-12
Business Wire
2025-04-09
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