Senior Vice President Government Affairs

Key Responsibilities

• Develop policy and advocacy strategies with the Board of Directors and member counties, ensuring alignment with Board priorities and emerging rural issues.
• Lead government affairs and advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels to influence legislation, regulations and public policy.
• Serve as a trusted advocate for rural counties, building relationships with policymakers, agencies, and key stakeholders.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments and turn complex issues into actionable strategies.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team while overseeing department operations, managing work priorities, resources, and key initiatives.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of California government, legislative processes, regulatory processes, and public policy development including a strong understanding of the unique issues facing rural California counties.
• Experience in legislative advocacy, governmental affairs, lobbying, legislative analysis, or public policy development.
• Familiarity with federal government processes, federal advocacy, and national policy issues affecting local government.
• Experience working directly with governing boards, elected officials, county leadership, or local government organizations.
• Strong professional relationships within California government and familiarity with federal policymakers and stakeholders.
• Experience working in or on behalf of rural California counties, local government, or rural communities.
• Success managing and developing high-performing professional staff.
• Experience managing consultants, lobbyists, contracts, budgets, and organizational resources.
• Demonstrated ability to build consensus among individuals with diverse viewpoints, backgrounds, and interests.