Government Relations Manager

Job Description

The person in this role is responsible for the development and execution of Puget Sound Energy’s government affairs strategy. This includes strategic execution of all aspects of the legislative process. This individual will also lead a wide range of complex government relations and public policy issues that include: execution of government affairs strategies that influence legislative and regulatory public policy; advocacy, through coalition building and grassroots influence, of PSE’s interests before government; support of major PSE initiatives. Additionally, they act as the department representative for Government Affairs and Public Policy on high priority initiatives for PSE.

The person who fills this role is expected to report to Olympia during each legislative session.

Upholds the safety compliance standards inherent in PSE’s operating and/or field procedures related to work responsibilities. Promotes and supports a culture of total safety.

Demonstrates commitment to conduct business honestly, ethically and consistent with our core values and Code of Conduct. Ensures duties are performed in accordance with all regulatory compliance obligations.

This job is considered “safety sensitive” as defined in RCW 49.44.240 and is subject to pre-employment drug screening that includes screening for the presence of marijuana and marijuana metabolites.

Job Responsibilities

• Develops and manages key constituent relationships in the area with key staff members of the government, industry and non-profit communities.
• Analyzes legislative and government affairs issues for PSE to identify both business opportunities as well as for risk mitigation.
• Develops and implements strategies in conjunction with the Government Affairs and Public Policy team, for achieving PSE’s public policy goals including managing legislation through entire legislative process.
• Assembles and manages internal project teams to address policy issues.
• Serves as a regular liaison and the lead government affairs representative on internal groups, including development and preparation of communications to internal stakeholders on public policy issues impacting PSE.
• Provides input into strategic plans with minimal oversight and executes on the plan.
• Administers Puget Sound Energy’s political giving and related compliance requirements.
• Provides guidance and counsel to Government Affairs and Public Policy team.
• Manage external consultants, as needed, in support of PSE initiatives and risk mitigation.
• Represents PSE externally with elected officials, business and industry associations, and key stakeholder groups.
• Regularly communicates to PSE management about public policy issues.
• Resolves high-profile government affairs and public policy with creative approaches.
• Develops and manages industry coalitions to support key PSE initiatives.
• Assists with daily management of the group’s budget.
• Coordinates and leverages resources across the department.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, communications or equivalent combination of education and/or work experience
• At least seven years of direct experience working in local, state or federal government affairs
• Extensive experience using the database, spreadsheet, and document software
• Ability to research using multiple resources including online applications
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are critical

Desired Qualifications

• A JD, MBA or advanced degree in public policy
• Possess a strong understanding of Washington State politics
• Works well in a team environment, travel on a regular basis and proactively adjust programs and work products as necessary to reach objectives
• Possess excellent customer service, leadership and presentation skills

Additional Information

At PSE we value and respect our employees and provide them opportunities to excel. We offer a competitive compensation and rewards package.

The pay range for this position is $101,000.00 – $168,200.00, and this position is eligible for annual goals based incentive bonuses.

PSE offers a suite of benefits to our employees. Employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, basic life, and short- and long-term disability insurance. There are additional voluntary options of supplemental life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent daycare, and an Employee assistance program (EAP). For long term savings, PSE offers a 401(k) investment option and a cash balance retirement plan. Employees will also receive Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays throughout the calendar year. Detailed benefit overviews can be found on our Career page – Why Work For Us (pse.com).

Families and businesses depend on PSE to provide the energy they need to pursue their dreams. Our steadfast commitment to serving Washington communities with safe, dependable and efficient energy started in 1873. Today we’re building the Northwest’s energy future through efforts like our award winning energy efficiency programs and our leadership in renewable energy.

Puget Sound Energy is committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status or presence of a disability that with or without reasonable accommodation does not prevent performance of the essential functions of the job, or any other category prohibited by local, state or federal law.

Should you have a disability that requires assistance and/or reasonable accommodation with the job application process, please contact the Human Resources Staffing department at [email protected] or 425-462-3017.

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