Senior Manager, Public Affairs

About the role

The Senior Manager, State and Local Public Affairs for Kansas leads Digital Realty’s government and community relations strategy in the state. This role involves supporting critical development projects, strengthening the company’s community partnership, and advocating for public policy priorities.

Responsibilities

• Implement Digital Realty’s public affairs and community relations strategy across Kansas.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local, city, and state government officials, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders.
• Develop and execute advocacy and engagement strategies that support business objectives and long-term growth.
• Serve as the company’s representative in community meetings, and with industry and business organizations.
• Collaborate on land use, zoning, permitting, and development efforts, engaging with government and community leaders to facilitate project success.
• Partner with the communications team to manage media relations and strengthen Digital Realty’s brand and reputation to support project delivery.
• Manage local sponsorships and community partnerships, ensuring alignment with company values and regional priorities.
• Provide strategic insights into political and regulatory landscape changes.
• Work with industry associations on policies related to energy, tax, infrastructure, and technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of experience working within government, corporate public affairs or public policy organizations.
• Experience with or within state and local governments, particularly involving real estate, tax, economic development, data centers, information technology, critical infrastructure or energy policy.
• Knowledge of land acquisition, zoning laws, permitting, energy, electricity, utility policy and real estate development are a strong plus.
• Experience in campaign strategy or political communications, including stakeholder engagement and grassroots organizing.
• Experience in media relations, including proactive communications and issue management.
• Experience managing local sponsorships and community partnerships to support corporate reputation and engagement.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in relevant jurisdiction.
• 7-10 years of experience in corporate legal practice, preferably in a technology or data-driven environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in risk management and regulatory compliance.
• Strong business acumen and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to manage and develop staff, if applicable.

Skills

Expert guidance on corporate legal matters, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, identifying and mitigating legal risks, advising on contractual negotiations, representing the company in interactions with external parties, collaborating with cross-functional teams, developing internal policies, contributing to budgeting and planning, and overseeing or mentoring legal staff.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance.
• 401k match.
• Disability benefits.
• Wellness and education benefits.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• Paid time off.
• Holidays.