Director of Government Affairs

Description

Job Title: Director of Government Affairs

Position Summary:

The Director of Government Affairs is responsible for developing, managing, and executing the firm’s political engagement strategy. This role oversees the administration and compliance of the firm’s Political Action Committee (PAC), directs lobbying efforts at the state and federal levels, and tracks all contested elections relevant to the firm’s practice areas as well as the firm’s political activity to ensure alignment with the firm’s strategic objectives and applicable laws. The position requires a sophisticated understanding of political processes, campaign finance regulations, and legal ethics rules governing attorney conduct.

Key Responsibilities:

PAC Management & Compliance

• Establish and administer the firm’s PAC, including fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and disbursement decisions
• Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local campaign finance laws and reporting requirements
• Maintain accurate records of contributions, expenditures, and filings
• Coordinate with external compliance vendors, auditors, or legal counsel as needed

Lobbying & Government Relations

• Develop and execute lobbying strategies that advance the firm’s policy and business objectives
• Build and maintain relationships with legislators, regulators, and key stakeholders
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments relevant to the firm’s practice areas
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, and testimony

Political Activity Tracking & Reporting

• Track all contested elections that concern the firm’s business interests, political contributions, lobbying activities, and engagements across the firm
• Develop internal reporting systems to ensure transparency and accountability
• Provide regular updates to firm leadership on political strategy, risks, and opportunities
• Maintain a centralized database of political contacts and activities

Strategic Advisory

• Advise firm leadership on political risks, opportunities, and emerging policy trends
• Ensure alignment between political activity and the firm’s brand, ethics obligations, and client interests
• Support attorneys and executives in political engagement, including event participation and relationship management

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; J.D. or advanced degree in public policy, political science, or related field preferred
• 5–10+ years of experience in government affairs, lobbying, campaign finance, or PAC management
• Strong knowledge of federal and state lobbying laws and campaign finance regulations
• Experience working with or within law firms, government agencies, or political organizations preferred
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills
• High level of discretion and ethical judgment

Preferred Skills & Competencies:

• Established network of political and regulatory contacts
• Experience managing compliance systems and reporting processes
• Ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable strategies
• Strong project management and leadership capabilities

Work Environment & Expectations:

• Hybrid office environment with periodic travel for legislative sessions, political events, and stakeholder meetings
• Availability outside standard business hours during legislative sessions or election cycles

Reporting Structure:

Reports to the Managing Partner or designated member of firm leadership.