Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Partnership Engagement

Application Procedures Interested in joining our team? Apply on our NACo Career Center Page. Share this page LinkedIn Email About The Position The Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Partnership Engagement is responsible for helping advance NACo’s mission, serving as a trusted Association representative of county government officials in our nation’s intergovernmental system. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with federal, state, tribal and local government entities, as well as with private-sector partners, nonprofit organizations, and other key stakeholders. This position requires a deep understanding of intergovernmental relations, public policy, and strategic collaboration. The position focuses on building meaningful intergovernmental and cross-sector partnerships to support the priorities and practices of NACo and America’s counties. Key Responsibilities Intergovernmental Relations:Develop, coordinate and execute ONE NACo strategies to enhance the Association’s relationships with federal, state, tribal and local officialsRepresent NACo in high-level discussions with county officials, intergovernmental officials and other stakeholders, andMonitor and analyze intergovernmental trends and policy developments, providing strategic recommendations to the Association’s CEO and leadership. Partnership Development and Engagement:Identify and cultivate partnerships with national level associations, think tanks, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders to advance NACo’s initiativesPartner with NACo teammates as a senior-level liaison to strategic partners, ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and mutual benefit, andProvide executive level support for the CEO with overall relationship building and strategic outreach. Strategic Advocacy and Communication:Collaborate with NACo executive leadership to align intergovernmental strategies with advocacy and thought leadership goalsPrepare and provide briefings, reports, and presentations to communicate NACo’s value, positions and partnership opportunities, andRepresent NACo at conferences, events, and other forums. Team Leadership and Collaboration:Advance the Association’s understanding, recognition and leadership in intergovernmental affairs and partnership engagementFoster a collaborative environment across NACo departments to ensure alignment and maximize impact, andManage budgets and resources related to intergovernmental and partnership programs. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent lived experience in public administration, political science, or a related field. Master’s degree or equivalent level experience is preferredProven ability to build and sustain strategic relationships across government, nonprofit, and private sectorsStrong understanding of the functions and needs of counties and local governmentsExcellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skillsDemonstrated leadership and team management experience Preferred Attributes Familiarity with federal legislative and regulatory processesExperience working with or within county governments or related partner organizationsStrong network of contacts within government agencies and intergovernmental leadersAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment Location and Travel This position is based in Washington, D.C., with travel to conferences, meetings, and partner engagements. Salary Range $150,000-$160,000 commensurate with experience and available resources Opportunity to lead impactful, mission-oriented public affairs efforts at a national level.Work alongside a dedicated team committed to helping county government officials in the pursuit of excellence in public service, ultimately helping people and places to thrive.Competitive salary and benefits package. NACo's Vision, Mission & Norms At NACo, we invest in our teammates with benefits that go beyond the basics, supporting you at work and in life. Health & Wellness Medical, dental and vision coverage with NACo contributing a significant share of premiumsFlexible spending accountsEmployee assistance program with 24/7 confidential support Financial & Retirement 401(k) with potential employer match and automatic enrollEmployer funded pension contribution of 10 percent of salaryLife insurance and fully paid short- and long-term disability coverage Time off and Flexibility Generous paid leave starting at 20 days annually, increasing with tenureEleven paid holidays each yearPre-tax commuter benefits and transportation subsidy Professional Development Tuition reimbursement to support continued education and career growth Benefits may vary based on position and eligibility