Director of Public Affairs

Taylor Shellfish•Shelton, WA

2d•$100,000 - $135,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Public Affairs leads Taylor Shellfish Farms’ government relations, public policy strategy, media engagement, and community outreach efforts across Washington State and other operating regions. This role anticipates policy challenges, identifies opportunities to strengthen the shellfish aquaculture industry, and influences key policy conversations affecting environmental regulation, land and water use, workforce matters, food safety, marine resource management, coastal community development, aquaculture research. You will represent Taylor Shellfish in meetings with local, state and federal elected officials, Governors’ offices, agency staff and leadership, Tribes, and regulatory bodies; participate in key industry groups; and advocate on behalf of the company at conferences, policy forums, and political events. This position requires seasoned judgement, strong relationship management skills, and the ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable strategies that align with Taylor Shellfish’s mission and business goals. You will also help shape community-level engagement strategies around our farms, hatcheries, processing facilities, and retail/restaurant locations, ensuring that Taylor Shellfish remains a trusted and responsible partner in the regions where we operate.

Requirements

Minimum of 6 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, regulatory advocacy, community relations, or related roles.
Demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships with elected officials, agency staff, community leaders, Tribal governments, and industry stakeholders.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills with strong political acumen and a professional demeanor.
Proven ability to influence and collaborate across diverse internal teams, including Regulatory, Operations, Legal, HR, and Executive Leadership.
Strong organizational skills, project management abilities, and attention to detail.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort using remote collaboration tools (e.g., Teams, Zoom).
Clean driving record and ability to travel regionally and nationally as needed.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with environmental, agricultural, or natural resources policy preferred (aquaculture or maritime industry experience a plus).
Existing network within governmental bodies, regulatory agencies, and industry associations is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Government Relations & Policy Strategy
Monitor, analyze, and interpret local, state, and federal legislative and regulatory developments impacting aquaculture, environmental permitting, water quality, land use, food safety, employment, and coastal resource management. Anticipate emerging policy trends and shape proactive strategies to mitigate risks and unlock opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth.
Develop and advocate public policy positions on local, state and federal regulations and legislation that advance Taylor Shellfish’s business objectives and long-term industry leadership.
Support and oversee state and federal lobbying efforts, including direct engagement with policymakers, staff, and agencies including testifying in hearings as appropriate.
Represent the company in government and industry forums, panels, coalitions, working groups, and trade association activities.
Act as a policy translator for internal teams—distilling regulatory changes, risks, and opportunities and aligning business and operational strategies accordingly.
Advocacy, Communications & Media
Track policy narratives, media coverage, and industry developments to guide timely and informed communications.
Lead earned and owned media strategies related to policy issues, public education, and community impact.
Coordinate with Taylor social media team to advocate on appropriate policy matters
Draft position statements, reports, talking points, and briefing materials for both internal and external audiences.
Build and maintain relationships with regulators, policy makers, media outlets, industry associations, advocacy organizations, environmental NGOs, Tribes, and thought leaders to amplify Taylor Shellfish’s perspective.
Provide tours and presentations as appropriate to educate on Taylor Shellfish farming and processing activities
Collaborate closely with executive management to shape messaging around policy, regulatory matters, crisis response, and community engagement.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
Shape and oversee community outreach programs
Partner with Operations and site leadership to ensure strong relationships with local communities, Tribal governments, nonprofits, and environmental organizations.
Support the development of community investment strategies that align with Taylor Shellfish’s values and commitments.
Perform other duties and project management tasks as assigned.