Vice President, State and Local Government Relations

Suffolk Construction•Los Angeles, CA

About The Position

Suffolk is seeking a Vice President, State & Local Government Relations to lead the company’s engagement with elected and appointed officials across key markets, with responsibility for executing government relations strategy across the Los Angeles market. The role advances Suffolk’s strategic priorities by strengthening public sector relationships, influencing policy and procurement environments, and positioning the company for continued growth. The position serves as Suffolk’s primary liaison to state and local government leaders and partners with executive and regional leadership to enhance market access, mitigate political and regulatory risk, and elevate Suffolk’s industry reputation. The role also leads external government relations partners and advises senior leadership on political engagement strategies, including oversight of the company’s Political Action Committee (PAC). Suffolk is a national construction company that provides construction management services and operates complementary businesses in real estate investment, design, self-perform construction, and technology investment. The company integrates data, artificial intelligence, and advanced technology through its Seamless Platform. Suffolk has more than $8 billion in annual revenue, 3,000 employees, and 17 offices, and serves clients in sectors including healthcare, life sciences, education, gaming, aviation, transportation, government, mission critical, and commercial. The position involves regular travel to key Suffolk markets. Work is performed in an office environment with quiet to moderate noise levels, as well as job-site walking. The role includes prolonged sitting and regular use of a keyboard, telephone, or writing, along with periods of standing, walking, and reaching.

Requirements

At least 10 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field.
Proven ability to build and leverage relationships with state and local government leaders across multiple regions.
Strong understanding of public sector procurement, policy development, and regulatory environments.
Demonstrated ability to influence outcomes and align external engagement strategies with business objectives.
Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and executive presence.
Experience managing consultants, external partners, or multi-market initiatives.
Knowledge of political compliance requirements, including PAC oversight.
Ability to operate strategically and tactically in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
Willingness to travel regularly to key Suffolk markets.

Nice To Haves

Experience in construction, infrastructure, real estate, or a highly regulated industry.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute Suffolk’s state and local government relations strategy across the Los Angeles market.
Build and maintain trusted relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and public sector stakeholders to support business development and operational success.
Identify and influence policy, regulatory, and procurement developments that affect Suffolk’s projects and growth opportunities.
Partner with regional leadership to align government relations efforts with business priorities, unlock opportunities, and strengthen Suffolk’s competitive position.
Develop and manage strategic engagement plans that elevate Suffolk’s brand and reputation in key markets and sectors.
Advise executive leadership on political, legislative, and regulatory dynamics.
Oversee and coordinate external consultants, lobbyists, and government relations partners.
Support crisis management and issues response involving public sector stakeholders, including reputational and political risk mitigation.
Provide guidance and oversight for Suffolk’s political engagement activities, including PAC strategy and compliance.