Director, Public Affairs

Digital Realty Global•San Francisco, CA

13d•$225,000 - $245,000

About The Position

As Director, State and Local Public Affairs for the West Region, in partnership with external consultants, you will lead Digital Realty’s government and community relations strategy across key markets, including California, Arizona, Washington, and Oregon. You will represent Digital Realty at the local, city, and state levels, managing relationships with elected officials, government agencies, community organizations, trade associations and business leaders. Your work will be critical in advancing the company’s public policy objectives, facilitating new development, and ensuring that Digital Realty is recognized as a responsible, engaged corporate partner. This role combines strategic government affairs leadership with community engagement and reputation management. You will develop and implement advocacy strategies that support data center growth and infrastructure expansion while ensuring Digital Realty remains a partner in the communities where Digital Realty operates. Working closely with internal partners across development, sustainability, energy, operations, communications, and legal, you will ensure policy, community, and business objectives are fully aligned throughout the West Region.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.
10+ years of experience working within government, corporate public affairs or public policy organizations.

Nice To Haves

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.

Responsibilities

Lead Digital Realty’s public affairs and community relations strategy across the West Region (CA, AZ, WA, and OR)
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 public hearings, 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 in local markets.
Manage local sponsorships and community partnerships, ensuring alignment with company values and regional priorities.
Monitor legislative, regulatory, and political developments and provide strategic insights to company leadership.
Build coalitions and work with industry associations on policies related to energy, tax, infrastructure, and technology.
Ability to travel 35% as needed across the West Region.