Senior Account Director, Public Affairs & Government Relations

Description

MikeWorldWide is seeking a well-rounded senior government relations professional in its Trenton-based office. This is a high-growth, high-visibility role for a client service-obsessed leader with experience leading multi-dimensional, multi-workstream accounts. Our ideal candidate is a modern, integrated thinker with a command of the rapidly changing environment of public opinion and public policy: well-versed in the use of digital and paid strategies, and rooted in active, hands-on management of government relations and public affairs. If you understand and live in the intersection of public policy, public relations and community relations and possess a deep understanding of these dynamics in New Jersey, this role is for you.

We are seeking candidates with a demonstrated ability to think critically and influence elected and appointed officials to move to action. A bias toward action and willingness to be hands-on with teams and client deliverables in fast-moving situations is highly valued. 

Experience and background in campaigns, New Jersey Legislature, Governor’s Administration, or New Jersey’s Congressional offices are required. The position also will involve participation in comprehensive public affairs and legislative strategies, and direct outreach to pubic officials, community leaders, business organizations and other key New Jersey stakeholders and influencers.

Agency experience is preferred, but individuals with experience in New Jersey public policy at the federal, state, or local level is important and will be considerably weighted. Also, those who have engaged in direct government relations as in-hopuse counsel or lobbyists for New Jersey based entities are encouraged to apply. Those interested should be prepared to provide writing samples and case studies of programs managed and implemented by the candidate.

Candidates will be expected to operate in a client-facing capacity, including participation in regular meetings virtually and in person within New Jersey. There also will be involvement in client events, business development and campaign activities that include participation in forums outside of the home/office.

Experience in political campaigns and a strong understanding of legislative process – a strong plus. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

· Provide high-level account management and strategic counsel to clients across the spectrum of public affairs including positioning and messaging, stakeholder engagement, policy making, legislative process, issues management, and executive visibility.

· Experience with legislative and policy making is important. Working on an issue from the time a bill is drafted, through the legislative process and ending with Governor’s enactment. 

· Understanding and tracking Rules and Regulations through various Departments and Divisions within the Governor’s Administration. 

· Key contacts at the state, county and local elected and appointed official levels. Maintaining and using these relationships to assist various public affairs campaigns.

· Attend New Jersey Senate and Assembly legislative committee hearings and provide recaps of those hearings to a variety of clients. Working on legislation during the Senate and Assembly voting sessions to achieve desired client outcomes.

· Structure and lead day-to-day operational and campaigns of integrated account teams, generating fresh, smart ideas and leading programs.

· Crafting thoughtful points of view and recommendations based on a broad understanding of client landscapes, business and industry environment and public policy positions.

· Anticipate potential risks and issues and help clients navigate challenges with deep institutional and category expertise.

· Provide account oversight with a client-focused mindset and commitment to quality work that exceeds expectations.

· Continually work with teams to drive client results that can meet or surpass client KPIs through the development of best-in-class public affairs and legislative campaigns.

Requirements

Primary Responsibilities: 

· Provide high-level account management and strategic counsel to clients across the spectrum of public affairs including positioning and messaging, stakeholder engagement, policy making, legislative process, issues management, and executive visibility.

· Experience with legislative and policy making is important. Working on an issue from the time a bill is drafted, through the legislative process and ending with Governor’s enactment. 

· Understanding and tracking Rules and Regulations through various Departments and Divisions within the Governor’s Administration. 

· Key contacts at the state, county and local elected and appointed official levels. Maintaining and