Head of State and Local Government Relations

The Role

Suffolk is seeking Head of State & Local Government Relations to lead the company’s engagement with elected and appointed officials across our key markets. This leader will play a critical role in advancing Suffolk’s strategic priorities by strengthening public sector relationships, influencing policy and procurement environments, and positioning the company for continued growth.

Serving as Suffolk’s primary liaison to state and local government leaders, this role partners closely with executive and regional leadership to enhance market access, mitigate political and regulatory risk, and elevate Suffolk’s brand as an industry leader in safety, innovation, and project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute Suffolk’s state and local government relations strategy across priority markets, including California, Texas, Florida, Utah, Nevada, New York, and New England
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and key public sector stakeholders to support business development and operational success
• Identify and influence policy, regulatory, and procurement developments that impact Suffolk’s projects and growth opportunities
• Partner with regional leadership to align government relations efforts with business priorities, helping to unlock new opportunities and strengthen Suffolk’s competitive position
• Develop and manage strategic engagement plans that elevate Suffolk’s brand and reputation in key markets and sectors
• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on political, legislative, and regulatory dynamics
• Oversee and coordinate external consultants, lobbyists, and government relations partners to ensure alignment and impact
• Support crisis management and issues response related to public sector stakeholders, including reputational and political risk mitigation
• Provide guidance and oversight for Suffolk’s political engagement activities, including PAC strategy and compliance

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field, preferably within construction, infrastructure, real estate, or a highly regulated industry
• Proven track record of building and leveraging relationships with state and local government leaders across multiple regions
• Strong understanding of public sector procurement, policy development, and regulatory environments
• Demonstrated ability to influence outcomes and align external engagement strategies with business objectives
• Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and executive presence
• Experience managing consultants, external partners, or multi-market initiatives
• Knowledge of political compliance requirements, including PAC oversight
• Ability to operate both strategically and tactically in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
• Willingness to travel regularly to key Suffolk markets