Government Relations & Public Affairs Advisor

Summary:

This is a full-time on-site role for a Government Relations & Public Affairs Advisor at Watanabe Ing LLP. The role involves managing government relations and public affairs activities on behalf of the firm and its clients.

Essential Functions:

·        Identify and engage with policy leaders at local and state government levels on behalf of clients;

·        Develop coordinated government relations strategies with clients. This includes, but is not limited to, identifying and proposing policy solutions, engaging community leaders, and other stakeholders and preparing an advocacy plan;

·        Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders to solicit their insights relevant to the firm’s clients and in advancing their interests;

·        Support and advise the Public Affairs Group of breaking and relevant issues to facilitate successful campaigns;

·        Keep abreast of State and county policy issues relevant to clients and brief clients and the team, as needed;

·        Support and maintain relations with governmental agencies, including staff for purposes of ongoing communications;

·        Monitor state and county legislative action and coordinate advocacy efforts in line with legislative deadlines;

·        Research, track legislation, draft testimony, monitor hearings and advocate on behalf of clients;

·        Prepare clients for public hearings, briefings or meetings with public officials;

·        Respond to requests and provide timely responses and information to clients;

·        Develop and produce reports and materials on behalf of clients; and

·        Utilize a tracking system of issues and testimony.

Other Functions:

·        Maintain and develop other external relationships; i.e., community agencies, businesses, etc.;

·        Attend political and community events, as needed;

·        Assist with marketing efforts for the Public Affairs Group and the firm;

·        Flexible work schedule, especially during the legislative session;

·        Ability to work in a team environment and independently; and

·        Other duties as assigned by the Director, in support of the Public Affairs Group.

Skills:

·        Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook; able to navigate websites and level of comfort with technology in general;

·        Strong communications skills: oral, written and electronic;

·        Strong analytical and critical thinking skills;

·        Excellent interpersonal skills; both external and internal;

·        Detail oriented;

·        Client service oriented;

·        Flexible and adaptable to fast-paced, changing environment;

·        Ability to multi-task and produce quality work under tight deadlines;

·        Strong organizational skills; and

·        Experience with the Hawaii State legislature and county councils; prefer five years minimum.

Education:

·        College degree in related field or recognized equivalent.