Director, Local Government Relations

Ziply Fiber•Kirkland, WA

1d•$139,400 - $197,700

About The Position

Ziply Fiber is seeking an experienced strategic leader to lead a multi-state team of Local Government Relations Managers and specialists. The role supports fiber market expansion and operational goals by building and maintaining relationships with municipal public works departments, government leaders, community leaders, residents, businesses, and internal departments. The Director reports to the Vice President – Regulatory and External Affairs and provides local intelligence about municipal expectations, regulations, specifications, and laws to support successful expansion and strengthen the company’s image and reputation. The Director will define and execute local government relations strategy, monitor and respond to proposed ordinances and regulations, lead team development, and partner with cross-functional departments. The role oversees franchise, right-of-way, and permitting agreements, and leads coordinated responses to high-profile community or government issues. Regular travel across Ziply Fiber’s multi-state service territory is required, including attendance at evening or weekend meetings as needed. Work is primarily in a modern office setting, with extensive computer, keyboard, mouse, and multi-line telephone use. The role also involves travel to meet government officials, attend meetings, and support field operations. Physical demands may include bending, stooping, prolonged sitting, walking or standing, and occasionally lifting or moving up to 25 pounds. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; sponsorship is unavailable. A pre-employment background check is required, and drug screening may be required.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, business, communications, law, or a related field, or equivalent experience in local government relations, government affairs, or telecommunications.
At least 7 years of progressive experience in local government relations, including permitting, right-of-way, and franchise matters.
At least 5 years of people leadership experience directing, coaching, and developing a team, including leading managers and multi-state or multi-jurisdiction teams.
Knowledge of and hands-on experience with state and local broadband and telecommunications policy and regulatory issues.
Experience implementing public policy and compliance programs.
Experience in the telecommunications industry or public utilities.
Ability to lead and manage projects and tasks while effectively representing Ziply Fiber.
Willingness to travel regularly across the multi-state service territory and attend evening or weekend council, commission, and community meetings as needed.
Valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and satisfactory driving record; must maintain these.
Ability to work independently and use sound judgment on jurisdictional, regulatory, and franchise matters.
Ability to manage multiple jurisdictions and critical deadlines as priorities and schedules change.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and attention to detail.
Ability to provide excellent service to municipal officials, community leaders, and internal partners.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer; sponsorship is not available.
Must obtain written approval from Ziply Fiber before holding outside employment or being self-employed, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

Responsibilities

Define and lead a multi-year local government relations strategy aligned with fiber market expansion and operational goals across multiple states, translating it into annual plans, budgets, and measurable objectives.
Monitor, analyze, and respond to proposed local ordinances, fees, and regulations affecting fiber deployment; prepare public comments and briefing materials.
Direct, develop, and scale a multi-state team of Local Government Relations Managers and specialists; set goals and KPIs, coach for performance, and foster accountability and continuous improvement.
Partner with Network/Outside Plant, Construction, Field Operations, Marketing, Legal/Regulatory, and Brand/Communications to support build readiness, timely issue resolution, consistent messaging, and positive community outcomes.
Oversee negotiation, renewal, and compliance tracking for municipal franchise, right-of-way, and permitting agreements; maintain a central record of jurisdictional requirements, terms, and key dates.
Serve as an escalation point for high-profile community or government issues, coordinating multidisciplinary responses and elevating major matters to senior leadership for decisions.
Partner with Communications on media strategy and with Legal/Regulatory on sensitive matters.
Perform other duties as required to support the business and evolving organization.
Travel regularly across the multi-state service territory, attend government and community meetings (including evening or weekend meetings as needed), and support field operations.