Lead, Government Affairs (KY)

American Water Works • Lexington, KY

248d

About The Position

The primary role of this position is to develop and manage a comprehensive state government affairs program to advance and support the company's business plan and state-specific objectives. This role manages legislation with the potential to impact the company and provides strategic direction and tactical implementation of government affairs activities in support of company objectives. This role is also responsible for establishing, nurturing and maintaining relationships with elected and appointed state government officials, for ensuring that the company is properly and effectively positioned with key elected/appointed individuals, and is a trusted and expert resource. The Lead, Government Affairs reports to the Senior Manager of Government and External Affairs (KY) and is responsible for effective reporting and communications with American Water to ensure the company is advancing an aligned, integrated and effective government relations strategy across the business. This role works closely with the Corporate Government and External Affairs team to ensure timely sharing of relevant information related to legislative efforts, including development of policy issues and narratives, bill drafting and amendments, and internal legislative tracking and reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, government affairs, journalism, communications, public relations or related field is preferred.
• 9+ years of related work experience, with 4 to 6 years in government relations or lobbying, preferably within the utility sector.
• Must be a registered lobbyist.
• Demonstrated ability to testify before legislative audiences.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize responsibilities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to manage through influence and build strong relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budget resources efficiently.
• Strong relationships within the Kentucky legislature.
• Thorough understanding of PAC laws and Election Law Enforcement Laws.

Responsibilities

• Leads and directs the effective development, implementation and assessment of an integrated government affairs program to enhance the company's strategy and reputation.
• Establishes regular proactive communication outreach strategies and tactics in the state government political arena.
• Proactively meets with state and local government officials to create strong relationships and mitigate emerging or potential problems.
• Develops and implements government affairs and outreach strategy and tactics for rate case proceedings and other company initiatives.
• Acts as the primary state lobbyist for the company.
• Prepares and manages the development of legislative testimony and testifies on behalf of the company.
• Manages contract lobbyists and maximizes effectiveness.
• Establishes and maintains an effective bill tracking program.
• Builds effective alliances and coalitions to advance the company's position on key legislative initiatives.
• Represents the company at key business organization functions and political events.
• Ensures state government officials are kept updated on company-related events.
• Works closely with Business Development and External Affairs on statewide government affairs strategy.
• Utilizes company public affairs management platform to manage constituent issues.
• Works with senior management to ensure coverage at regulatory events.
• Helps identify business development opportunities through government relationships.
• Manages the company's affiliated state PAC and ensures compliance with Election Law Enforcement rules.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and health benefits package.
• Opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.
• Focus on health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Utilities
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree