State Government & Regulatory Affairs Rep Staff

The State Government & Regulatory Affairs Rep. Staff is responsible for leading, developing and maintaining state government and regulatory agency, elected/appointed officials and non-governmental organization relationships in all areas where Williams operates for project advocacy, business growth, operations and project execution support – with a particular focus on the Northeast. This role will track, report and influence the development of state legislation, regulation and policies that could affect our organization. The team will align advocacy with business priorities for existing and prospective operational areas. This role will primarily support efforts at the state and local level, but certain policies and issues may need to be coordinated at a federal level or with other members of the team. The ability to develop and implement a comprehensive issues management process that nurture relationships, collaborate with others to assess and act upon key issues, contribute as a team member and lead cross functional teams without formal leadership authority are keys to success. Responsibilities/Expectations: Establishes and cultivates executive relationships with state and local government leaders, policymakers, and regulatory agencies to represent the company position on issuesInfluences relevant policies and regulations and develops/enhances the reputation of the companyBuilds lasting relationships that help to establish trust, mitigate potential obstacles, convey our priorities and strategies and sustain efforts in new communitiesSupports leadership with updates on material legislative and regulatory developments; develops company position papers, collateral, fact sheets and presentationsParticipates in technical partner groups, industry trade associations, coalitions, and other advisory/industry committees; drives the agenda for business impactSupports development of implementation plans and tools for when new regulations or rules take effect; provides a strategy for addressing high risk issuesEngages state and local officials, peers, and other key influencers in an effort to educate them about our industry and our businessWillingness to travel, as needed, to states or cities within the individual’s coverage areaAbility to manage outside consultants and work closely with both internal and external audiencesUnderstand and manage department budgets Other duties as assigned Education/Years of Experience: Required: Bachelor’s degree in business, political science or communications; a minimum of seven (7) years' direct experience in government affairs, customer/business partner relations or related fieldPreferred: Master’s degree in law, business, political science or communications; a minimum of ten (10) years' experience as staff in a State House, Governor's office, or federal congressional office within the specific geographic region assigned Other Requires Experience: Demonstrates excellent organizational/interpersonal skills and safety as the utmost priorityProficiency in Microsoft Office Applications and PC skillsAn understanding of energy policy, with a specific focus on legislation and/or the regulatory processAbility to work with elected officials across the political spectrum to build support and consensusUnderstands corporate communications tools and implementation with internal and external audiencesDetailed understanding of the legislative process/rules and practice of government and regulatory affairs and outreachExcellent written and verbal communication and presentation skillsAble to establish excellent rapport with individuals on all levels, specifically senior leaders and officialsAbility to work under high pressure in a dynamic environment and collaborate across a matrixed organizationPreferred: Experience in political or issues campaignsTravel Requirements: Approximately 50% travel is expected to support project, and business needsThis role is expected to be based in either the Houston office or the Midland/Odessa region , Lead state government affairs efforts within designated regions. Partner with internal stakeholders including Communications, Operations, Environmental & Permitting, Engineering Services and Finance to develop and implement a comprehensive state and local issue management process that nurtures relationships across government. Align this with business priorities for existing and prospective operational areas. Support efforts at the state and local level, but certain policies and issues may need to be coordinated at a federal level or with other Government Affairs team members. Engagements with, but not limited to: state government officials, local leaders; NGOs and civil society, trade and business groups, academia, and other third parties. This position will effectively collaborate across all functions and the business to assess and act upon key issues.