Governmental Relations Coordinator

A career with Johnson County Government is more than just a job, it is an opportunity to serve a diverse and expanding community in meaningful ways. We challenge ourselves to be a different kind of government because we care deeply about our community and each other. Committed to our shared values, we provide excellent public service, seeking always to improve ourselves and our organization. We offer wonderful benefits, retirement plans, wellness incentives, a great organizational culture, and much more! If you're searching for something more than just a job, something akin to a calling, then consider the challenge and opportunity of being a member of Johnson County Government!

Johnson County Government is seeking to fill a vacancy for a Governmental Relations Coordinator. This position will report to County Leadership within the County Manager's Office and is responsible for strategically advocating and representing the county's interests to government officials at the local, state, and federal levels. This role involves developing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, monitoring legislative activities, analyzing policy implications, and coordinating advocacy efforts. The manager collaborates with county departments, conducts research on relevant issues, communicates legislative updates to leadership and the public, and plays a crucial role in shaping the county's response to legislative changes. Additionally, the manager may engage in coalition building, testify at hearings, pursue grant opportunities, and ensure ethical compliance in all government relations activities. First review of applications will begin on April 8, 2024. Additional duties are:

Plans, directs, develops and implements the County's federal, state and regional legislative policies and activities by strategizing with County Manager and key leaders of outside agencies such as federal and state legislators and the Governor's Office; develops and guides the County's state and federal legislative programs by gathering operational information and needs from staff and elected officials, developing state and federal legislative agendas, soliciting and directing any needed contracted lobbyists, analyzing potential federal and state legislation and communicating its impact to the Board of County Commissioners and County staff, developing testimony, tracking progress of pending legislation, and coordinating lobbying efforts with the Kansas Association of Counties. Represents the County's interest in meetings and communications with regional, state, and federal officials.
• Works as an advocate of the County's positions on issues before the U.S. Congress, State Legislature, and regional government boards, as well as developing the County's relationship with other municipalities and special interest groups throughout the Metro Area and Kansas; briefing elected officials, County Manager, and senior management on complex municipal and community issues; researching and developing recommendations on Countywide issues, pending legislation, and other administrative issues; prepares and delivers testimony at hearings and meetings to articulate the county's positions on legislative matters; effectively communicates complex issues to diverse audiences.
• Serves as a constituent liaison about issues and suggestions and ensuring County responsiveness; and interpreting federal, state, and County statutes, ordinances, rules, and regulations; develops and executes communication plans to keep county officials, staff, and the public informed about legislative issues affecting the county. This may include drafting press releases, public statements, and informational materials.
• Cultivates strong relationships with elected officials, government agencies, and key stakeholders to effectively represent the county's positions and priorities; attends meetings, conferences, and events to network and build partnerships; identifies opportunities to collaborate with other counties, municipalities, and advocacy groups to amplify the county's voice on shared issues; builds and maintains coalitions to strengthen advocacy efforts.
• Identifies and pursues grant opportunities and funding sources at the government level; works with relevant departments to prepare and submit grant proposals to support county initiatives.
• Ensures compliance with all ethical standards and regulations related to government relations activities; maintains transparency and integrity in interactions with government officials and stakeholders.

A Bachelor's Degree in Public Management, Business Administration, Political Science or relevant field; seven (7) years of progressively responsibile experience in a variety of governmental relations, lobbying, public affairs, or related positions; three (3) years' experience working with local, state, and federal governmental officials and agencies; an in-depth understanding of local, state, and federal governmental structures, processes and regulation; and a valid driver's license with acceptable driving record required.

A Master's Degree in Public Management, Business Administration, Political Science or relevant field; experience with a focus on local government issues and familiarity with the county's specific issues, challenges and priorities preferred.

Johnson County Government requires reference/background screening for all positions.

Education/Experience Substitutions:

Education may be substituted for experience.

Experience may be substituted for education.

Physical, Environmental, and Special Working Conditions:

All County employees may be called upon to assist other departments in a declared emergency situation.