POSITION LOCATION
This position is based in Austin. Travel to Dallas and Houston offices as requested or needed for clients.
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
This employee should have a minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in the lobby, government or public relations fields. An understanding of legislative processes, regulatory environments, and public policy issues, and working in environments requiring skillful political navigation is preferred.
JOB DESCRIPTION
As a key member of the GRPR government relations team, you will serve the needs of our existing clients while assisting the Director of Government Relations with lobbying on behalf of clients. Maintaining close ties with colleagues at Gray Reed and Gray Reed Advisory, you will collaborate to address their clients' government relations needs identifying opportunities to expand our client base.
You will proactively conduct business development meetings to build your own client portfolio and be ready to take on prospects identified by GRPR staff. Your focus will be promoting GRPR's overall growth and health through dedicated efforts that contribute to the team's shared successes.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
- Proven experience developing and executing government relations or legislative strategies
- 5-7 years of experience in a legislative, political, or advocacy-related role is preferred.
- Strong understanding of the legislative process and government operations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
- Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in work.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, public relations, or a related field of study.
- Preference will be given to candidates who have also earned a master's degree in a similarly related field of study.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Client Support:
- Assist in managing client relationships by coordinating communication between clients and the lobbying team.
- Prepare and deliver regular updates to clients on legislative developments, advocacy efforts, and potential impacts on their interests.
- Help draft client-specific materials, such as policy briefs, talking points, and legislative action summaries.
- Coordinate client meetings, briefings, and events, ensuring all logistical aspects are handled smoothly.
Research & Analysis:
- Conduct research on legislative issues, policies, and political trends that impact the organization or clients.
- Monitor and track relevant legislative developments and provide timely updates to the lobbying team and clients.
- Assist in the preparation of reports, policy briefs, position papers, and presentations for meetings.
Legislative Monitoring:
- Monitor legislative calendars, committee schedules, and other relevant events.
- Attend legislative hearings and meetings as required and provide summaries and updates to the lobbying team and clients.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of lobbying activities, including contact lists, meeting notes, and follow-up actions.
- Assist Gray Reed legal team with matters that have government relations possibilities.
Client Development :
- Proactively identify and conduct business development meetings to cultivate a client portfolio.
- Manage and maintain client relationships to provide quality strategic solutions that foster long-term partnerships.
Advocacy :
- Establish and maintain relationships with government officials, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
- Develop and implement advocacy strategies to influence public policy and regulatory decisions.
- Work closely with client teams to align government relations strategies with organizational goals.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations related to lobbying and government relations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS (walking, lifting, equipment, operation, etc.)
The employee will be required to be on-site with GRPR clients regularly and will be expected to functionally act under the physical demands of every client's area of work.
DIRECT REPORTS AND RELATIONSHIPS
This position reports to the GRPR Director of Government Affairs.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
- Strong work ethic
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work with and blend in Gray Reed culture
- Detail oriented
- Highly professional with strong interpersonal skills
- Self-motivated
- Superior leadership and teaching abilities
- Positive and effective written and verbal communication skills
SALARY / CASH COMPENSATION
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
and bonus opportunities (based on revenue from clients originating with this employee) commensurate with experience
BENEFITS
- Profit Sharing 401(k)
- Paid parking or mass transit subsidy
- Paid time off - 3 weeks of vacation time per year (increasing with tenure), 10 holidays
- Paid parental leave
- Healthcare and wellness plans
- HSA with Employer Contributions
- Accidental death & dismemberment insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid Short-term and long-term disability
- Paid Identity Protection Service
- Employee Assistance Program
- Concierge Health Advocate Service