Job Description

The Director of Government Relations is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of the Coastal Conservation League’s (CCL) advocacy strategies at the state and local levels. This position involves working closely with government officials, private groups, and community stakeholders to influence policy decisions that advance the organization’s conservation agenda. The Director will serve as the primary liaison between the CCL and various governmental entities and coalitions, while mobilizing grassroots support for key legislative priorities.

Essential Functions:

Advocacy Strategy & Government Relations:

Develop and execute advocacy strategies to influence state and local policy decisions that support the conservation of South Carolina’s natural resources.
Monitor, analyze, and track relevant legislation, policies, and regulations; attend hearings, workgroups, and meetings as needed.
Act as the primary liaison between the Coastal Conservation League and federal, state, and government agencies, elected officials, and private groups, advocating for policy positions that further conservation goals.
Provide information and briefings to government officials and other stakeholders on the League’s policy positions and priorities.

Policy Influence & Research:

Influence policy and decision-making to advance the League’s conservation goals, including coastal land protection, water resource management, and climate resilience.
Conduct policy analysis and research to support advocacy efforts and draft responses to policy issues that impact the League’s mission.
Draft briefing materials, legislative reports, talking points, and one-page handouts to communicate policy priorities to stakeholders.

Coalition Building & Partnerships:

Build and maintain strategic partnerships with government agencies, conservation organizations, business associations, and industry stakeholders to advance legislative and policy objectives.
Serve as the organization’s representative in key coalitions and build diverse coalitions to further legislative and grant goals.
Coordinate member testimony, legislative visits, and workgroup meetings, and plan and participate in key events.

Public & Media Engagement:

Collaborate with the communications team to develop and implement advocacy campaigns that build the League’s profile and generate media support for key initiatives.
Build support for the League’s policy goals by engaging businesses, industry groups, and donors to activate their networks in support of conservation objectives.

Internal Collaboration & Leadership:

Work with program staff to align advocacy strategies with conservation goals and assist in coalition building to achieve legislative victories.
Provide updates to the Executive Director and board of directors on policy developments and advocacy efforts.
Other duties as assigned.

Authorities:

The Director of Government Relations has the authority to work with staff in order to craft/determine policy positions and participate in negotiations on behalf of Coastal Conservation League in order to advance Coastal Conservation League’s mission.
Responsible for supervising contracted lobbyists and legislative program staff.

Competencies:

Effective negotiation and communication skills when working with government officials, community leaders, and diverse stakeholders.
Ability to manage and lead a team, including external lobbyists, and engage partners to advance legislative priorities.
Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex policy issues into clear, concise communications.
Excels in directing or participating in complex negotiations and presenting to and communicating with government officials, corporate executives, board members and others.
Ability to work with partners/government agencies without violating any restrictions related to conflicts of interest, lobbying former employers, or influencing decision makers.
Effective public speaker.
Extensive knowledge of policy and regulatory issues.
Experience using social media and web based communication tools.
Ability to work with a diverse set of interest groups.
Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects covering a diverse set of issues.
Ability to communicate complicated subject matter in a clear and concise way.
Ability to organize public opposition and support at the community and state level around priority issues.
Effective management skills.
Proficient computer skills.
Excellent reading and writing skills.
Proficient research skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and navigating online research and communication tools.

Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, public policy, political science, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
7-10+ years of experience in government relations, public policy, or advocacy, with demonstrated success in navigating the state and federal legislative processes.
Extensive knowledge of South Carolina’s political landscape, especially in coastal conservation, environmental policy, and rural-urban dynamics.
Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects covering diverse issues.

Preferred Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in a related field.
Experience in conservation funding mechanisms and understanding South Carolina’s conservation-related social and political dynamics.
Demonstrated success in presenting to government officials, corporate executives, or program leadership, with the ability to negotiate and navigate complex political landscapes.

Work Environment

The position operates in a professional office environment located in Columbia, SC.

Tagged as: Law/Policy

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