Director of Government Relations

Job Type Full-time Description

About Us 

Here for animals since 1868, the San Francisco SPCA is a cherished San Francisco institution, known for compassion, excellence and innovation in the fields of animal welfare and veterinary medicine. It has also established itself as a leader in legal advocacy and issues focused on improving the lives of companion animals in and out of shelters throughout California, and active animal legal advocacy in the legislature and general policy areas. SF SPCA is a thought leader in changing the legal and policy landscape for animals through the combination and application of its legal work, combined with its world class veterinary department. Through its Shelter PALS program, SF SPCA is the only shelter in the country providing free legal services to animal shelters and engaging actively in animal advocacy in the legislative arena. 

We operate a public veterinary hospital, a high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter clinic, a community veterinary clinic, and provide low-cost community medicine programs. The SF SPCA saves the lives of homeless dogs and cats through our shelter medicine and adoption programs. Our innovative programs and services serve as models for humane organizations across the country and around the world. 

As a community-supported nonprofit, not affiliated with any national organization, our values: Be Generous, Fearless, and Connected guide over 350 talented and dedicated professionals to deliver on our promises each day. 

Iconic and innovative, the SF SPCA offers you the opportunity to join a team committed not only to veterinary excellence and animal welfare, but to a balanced and rewarding work environment. 

 

Role Description 

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Director of Government Relations leads the organization’s legislative and policy advocacy efforts and has duties within the Shelter PALS program, as well as additional duties under the direction of the CEO. 

This position involves planning and implementing animal advocacy campaigns, creating community partnerships, managing government and constituency relationships, analyzing and drafting legislation and policy, lobbying state, and local policymakers, preparing and presenting communication materials, building and working with independent contractors, allied organizations and coalitions, and engaging animal welfare supporters throughout the state and nationally. 

The Director will work closely with the Shelter PALS Lead Counsel and SF SPCA management and staff in performing these essential duties. 

Remote work a possibility with periodic appearances at San Francisco campus and at events commensurate with job requirements and requests of CEO. 

 

Core Responsibilities 

• Develop and implement strategies for legislative and policy advocacy in alignment with SF SPCA’s mission. 
• Lead selection process and supervise contract lobbyists. 
• Increase SF SPCA involvement in local and statewide advocacy efforts. 
• Organize and execute annual Advocacy Day and Animal Welfare Legislative Summit. 
• Track and analyze relevant legislation and proposals. 
• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with government and community stakeholders. 
• Coordinate with advocacy partners at national, regional, and local levels. 
• Prepare policy analyses and briefings. 
• Provide regular updates on legislative efforts and strategies. 
• Collaborate with the Marketing & Communications Department on advocacy messaging. 
• Create and distribute advocacy materials, including presentations, action alerts, and policy reports. 
• Represent SF SPCA at public forums, donor events, and conferences. 
• Serve as liaison for the CEO on advocacy-related initiatives. 
• Develop and manage annual budget proposals. 
• Foster a collaborative work environment and promote continuous improvement. 
• Build and manage relationships with stakeholders, including senior management, volunteers, donors, and partners. 
• Ensure effective internal and external communication and coordination. 
• Provide excellent customer service and lead with integrity. 
• Balance short-term wins with long-term strategic goals. 
• Make decisive and courageous decisions. 
• Innovate and seek impactful solutions for animals and people. 
• Embrace diversity, promote equity, and show compassion. 
• Support and communicate SF SPCA programs and advocacy efforts. 
• Participate in donor events and present on legal and advocacy issues. 

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, communications, law, or another related field. 
• J.D. (