Government Affairs Specialist

GENERAL SUMMARY

Develops and implements intergovernmental and public information programs, events, and materials designed to promote and advance the mission and goals of the San Antonio River Authority. Primary responsibility will be representing the San Antonio River Authority with elected officials and residents in Wilson, Karnes and Goliad counties. Safety is #1 at the River Authority: We expect every employee to strictly follow safety policies, rules, and safe work methods, promptly correct or report safety hazards or unsafe conditions, immediately report injuries for prompt diagnosis and treatment, and make regular suggestions for safety process improvements to support continuous safety improvement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops and implements intergovernmental and public information projects from inception to completion; meeting project requirements, deadlines, budget, and quality standards.
• Supports the planning, project development, project operation elements, and strategic initiatives related to the River Authority’s mission.
• Establishes relationships with elected officials and their staff, public agency staff, chambers of commerce and other San Antonio River Basin civic groups to convey River Authority projects, vision and mission.
• Initiates, develops, implements, and staffs intergovernmental and community meetings and events including local, regional, and state legislative committee hearings and meetings, public meetings and events, luncheons, and field trips.
• Manages stakeholder processes for major projects of the River Authority, including public input meetings and stakeholder committees. Coordinates interactions with stakeholders, cross functional teams, and senior leaders.
• Aids in the development of the federal, state and local legislative agendas. Tracks progress of legislative and congressional strategies for the River Authority and reports updates to the Board, Executive Team and Managers. Reviews and analyzes regulations, legislation, laws, and public policy for updates.
• Creates public information materials for the River Authority including brochures, newsletters, news releases, media advisories, speaking/copy points, presentations, and other necessary materials. Supports social media activities across multiple platforms. Develops and oversees distribution of a variety of informational materials to special interest groups.
• Serves as a department liaison for one or more internal departments. Serves as the Public Information Act (PIA) officer as delegated; tracks and maintains related documents, and attends required PIA training in accordance with Texas Government Code section 552.012.
• Delivers River Authority (Speakers Bureau) presentations throughout the district.
• Performs related work as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Required Education and Experience: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, Communications or a related discipline, and two (2) years’ of progressively responsible experience in intergovernmental, elected officials or in government affairs for an interest group; or a combination of experience and education that results in the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Required Licenses or Certifications: None
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and an insurable driving record.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES

• Knowledge of: The organization’s mission and vision Microsoft Office Suite Website research and social media techniques
• Skills and Abilities: Oral and written communication; executing work per organizational bylaws and guiding documents Technical writing and report preparation Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character and SARA Core Values of Stewardship, Integrity, and Excellence. San Antonio River Authority is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer. We welcome differences in the form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, or gender identity.