Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Partnership Engagement

Reporting directly to the CEO, this role advances NACo’s mission by serving as a trusted representative of county government officials in our nation’s intergovernmental system.

Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and execute ONE NACo strategies to enhance the Association’s relationships with federal, state, tribal, and local officials.
• Represent NACo in high-level discussions with county officials, intergovernmental officials, and other stakeholders.
• Monitor and analyze intergovernmental trends and policy developments, providing strategic recommendations to the Association’s CEO and leadership.
• Identify and cultivate partnerships with national-level associations, think tanks, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders to advance NACo’s initiatives.
• Serve as a senior-level liaison to strategic partners, ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and mutual benefit.
• Provide executive-level support for the CEO with overall relationship building and strategic outreach.
• Collaborate with NACo executive leadership to align intergovernmental strategies with advocacy and thought leadership goals.
• Prepare and provide briefings, reports, and presentations to communicate NACo’s value, positions, and partnership opportunities.
• Represent NACo at conferences, events, and other forums.
• Advance the Association’s understanding, recognition, and leadership in intergovernmental affairs and partnership engagement.
• Foster a collaborative environment across NACo departments to ensure alignment and maximize impact.
• Manage 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 preferred.
• Proven ability to build and sustain strategic relationships across government, nonprofit, and private sectors.
• Strong understanding of the functions and needs of counties and local governments.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience.

Preferred Attributes

• Familiarity with federal legislative and regulatory processes.
• Experience working with or within county governments or related partner organizations.
• Strong network of contacts within government agencies and intergovernmental leaders.
• Ability 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.

Pay

Salary range: $150,000–$160,000.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage with NACo contributing a significant share of premiums.
  • Flexible spending accounts.
  • Employee assistance program with 24/7 confidential support.
• Financial & Retirement
  • 401(k) with potential employer match and automatic enrollment.
  • Employer-funded pension contribution of 10 percent of salary.
  • Life insurance and fully paid short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Time Off and Flexibility
  • Generous paid leave starting at 20 days annually, increasing with tenure.
  • Eleven paid holidays each year.
  • Pre-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.