Director of Government Relations

SEIU California State Councilis seeking aDirector of Government Relations
 
 
Purpose and Primary Responsibilities:
 
The SEIU California State Council coordinates the political, legislative and policy program of the 700,000 members of the Service Employees International Union in the state of California.
 
The Director of Government Relations, reports to the Executive Director, and is responsible for overseeing the Council’s legislative programs and will be responsible for the following:
 
Represent SEIU at political and legislative meetings, both internally and externally and serve as a coalition and legislative spokesperson.
 
Design programs to move the priorities of the union and to increase the involvement of members in the Local’s legislative and political programs
 
Work closely with Local Union Leaders, Division Directors, and SEIU HQ Staff as well as integrating the work in a cohesive manner with the International and Local Unions.
 
Provide strategic leadership in the political, legislative and issue arenas, acting as an advisor and building and maintaining relationships with party organizations and partners/allies.
 
 
Direction and Decision Making:
 
This position reports to the Executive Director and works independently. 
 
 
Education and Experience:
 
Qualified candidates will have a bachelor’s degree (master’s degree preferred) in political science, economics or related degree and at least five to seven (5-7) years of related work experience and/or a combination of education and experience that would provide for the following knowledge, skills and abilities: 

• Knowledge of unions, political campaign management, government bodies, issue campaigns concerning working families, and/or progressive organizations and their operations. 
   
• A proven ability to lobby issues at all levels of Government. 
   
• Knowledge of the labor movement and its allies and advocates.
   
• Proven ability to develop and maintain a variety of relationships on a variety of levels. 
   
• Demonstrated successful leadership and management experience in non-profit, government or labor organization of similar size. 
   
• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a timely manner and keep track of a variety of projects. 
   
• Excellent planning and organizational skills, including strategic planning. 
   
• Ability to analyze issues, define problems and propose creative solutions in political and legislative environments. 
   
• Excellent oral and written communications skills. 
   
• Ability to make presentations, plan and develop materials and conferences (including leadership and staff training) .
   
• Ability to hire, supervise and develop staff at all levels. 
   
• Ability to inspire confidence of others with personal authority, leadership skills and a collegial work style. 
   
• Perform other duties as requested. 
   
   
  Physical Requirements:
   
  This position requires an individual who is willing to work long and irregular hours and participate in all union wide activities and is willing to travel and work in different locations for determined periods of time.  This position also requires a valid driver's license, working automobile and valid auto insurance.