Legislative Director

City of Alexandria•Alexandria, VA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Legislative Director serves as the primary advocate and liaison for the City of Alexandria with the Virginia General Assembly, the Governor’s administration, and federal policymakers. This position is responsible for advancing the City’s legislative agenda at the state and federal levels, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities, and fostering collaborative relationships to support Alexandria’s policy and budgetary goals. The Alexandria City Manager is appointed by the City Council to be the chief administrative officer of the City. The City Manager's administrative staff serves as a liaison with City departments and with other governmental entities receiving funding from the City, but not reporting to the City Manager, and generally administers the City government. This position reports to a Deputy City Manager within the City Manager’s Office.

Requirements

Four-Year College Degree; at least five years of experience in government at the Federal, State, or local level; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Significant experience in the legislative process.
Experience working with the Virginia General Assembly and navigating Virginia’s state legislative process.
Some knowledge of or experience in the Federal legislative process.
Significant experience with written and verbal presentations.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree or law degree
Experience in multiple levels/areas of government (i.e., local/state/federal; executive and legislative)
Additional experience in State and Federal budget development
Virginia State legislative experience is highly desirable for this position.

Responsibilities

Lead the development, presentation, and execution of the City’s legislative agenda during General Assembly sessions.
Monitor and analyze state legislation, budget proposals, and policy developments that impact the City.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with members of the General Assembly, the Governor’s administration, and legislative staff.
Provide timely updates and strategic recommendations to City leadership regarding legislative activities and their implications.
Manage the City’s federal lobbying program to ensure alignment with the City’s priorities and effective advocacy efforts.
Develop and advance the City’s federal legislative package, focusing on policy and budget priorities.
Build and maintain relationships with the City’s congressional delegation and their staff to advocate for Alexandria’s federal interests.
Monitor federal legislation, regulatory changes, and appropriations opportunities that could affect the City.
Coordinate advocacy efforts for federal funding and grant opportunities in partnership with City departments and external stakeholders.
Collaborate with City departments to identify and align legislative priorities with operational needs.
Represent the City’s interests in meetings, hearings, and discussions with state and federal stakeholders.
Foster partnerships with other local governments, municipal associations, and regional organizations to support shared legislative goals.
Track and manage all state and federal legislation relevant to the City, identifying risks and opportunities.
Prepare clear, concise reports and briefings for City Council, the City Manager, and department heads on legislative matters.
Advocate for state and federal funding to support the City’s projects and initiatives.
Engage with state and federal budget committees and agencies to advance Alexandria’s financial interests.
Communicate the City’s legislative efforts and successes to residents, businesses, and other stakeholders.
Draft public statements, testimony, and correspondence on behalf of City leadership.
Manage the legislative team and consultants, ensuring effective coordination and resource allocation.
Ensure compliance with lobbying disclosure requirements and reporting obligations.

Benefits

Retirement – City of Alexandria Supplemental Retirement Plan
Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan
Medical , Dental, Vision – City covers 75-80%
Administrative Leave – 13 days per year
Holidays - 13 paid holidays
Sick leave - 12 days per year
Bereavement Leave – 3 days per occurrence
Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development - $3200 per fiscal year
Long-Term Disability (LTD) - City paid; Additional buy-up option available
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) - Medical and Dependent Care available
Transit Benefits - Up to $270 per month for employees who utilize public transit
Access to our on-site gyms near City Hall (equipment includes treadmills, weights, Peloton bikes, elliptical etc.)
Jet Dental – an onsite dental service twice per year
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Employee wellness and development programs
Other City discounts through partnerships