Arizona Government Affairs Manager

Founded in 1989, Western Resource Advocates is dedicated to protecting the West’s land, air, and water to ensure that vibrant communities exist in balance with nature. We use law, science, and economics to craft innovative solutions to the most pressing conservation issues in the region within three core program areas: Clean Energy, Healthy Rivers and Western Lands.
In the face of population growth and climate change, the Western United States needs a strong and effective advocacy voice at the regional level to address changes that are already underway and to steer the West towards a sustainable future. WRA has aggressive plans to tackle these challenges. We envision a future in the West where:

• Western rivers and lakes will have abundant clean water to support habitat for fish and wildlife, communities and agriculture, and world class recreational opportunities. The Colorado River will flow to the sea;
• Our homes, buildings and transportation systems will be powered by clean energy. The West will prosper in a zero-carbon economy;
• Half of western landscapes and habitat will be protected and connected to support thriving wildlife populations and unparalleled opportunities to enjoy the West’s natural beauty; and
• The West will have clean air and clean water to support healthy communities and vital habitat.

The position will be based in WRA’s Phoenix, Arizona office. WRA staff are strongly encouraged to work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

STRATEGIC ADVOCACY

• Work collaboratively with WRA’s program and communications staff to develop and implement public policy advocacy efforts with legislative, regulatory, and administrative decision makers in Arizona
• Coordinate with WRA’s policy and communications staff to craft tailored messages and talking point for stakeholders to ensure effective advocacy
• In coordination with program staff, read and analyze the potential impact of proposed legislation and administrative policies
• Monitor and track relevant state and local policies

RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

• Build relationships with key decision-makers from both political parties, and serve as a liaison between them and WRA staff
• Identify, recruit and organize a diverse group of opinion leaders in the state to engage with decision makers to reinforce WRA’s policies and positions
• Identify and manage effective coalitions of diverse partners in the region to advance WRA’s priorities

TRAVEL

• Occasional travel to meetings and event, generally within Arizona (post COVID-19)

STRATEGIC ADVOCACY EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience developing and executing government affairs, external affairs, communications, or advocacy campaigns
• Understanding of, and familiarity with, Arizona politics and policy makers, especially as they relate to energy and climate change policies
• Experience building coalitions with a diverse group of stakeholders to advance public policy objectives with decision makers

COMMUNICATON SKILLS

• Ability to apply communication skills to persuade, influence or lead others on complex subjects
• Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail and follow‐through

This section is made up of skills that a candidate may come in with, and if not, may be trained on the job. They are not required and candidates who do not possess these skills yet, should not be discouraged from applying.

• Relationships with key state and local decision makers and stakeholders
• Presenting and public speaking skills

Salary range for this position is $70,000-$90,000; salary depends on relevant experience and new staff rarely start at the top of the range – most start close to the midpoint of the range.  WRA’s excellent benefits package includes health, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, life & disability insurance, 3 weeks paid vacation leave, sick leave, parental leave, sabbatical leave after five years; and an RTD EcoPass for staff in the Denver/Boulder metro area. Position is full-time exempt.

Diversity and inclusion are a critical component of our business strategy, mission and vision. We welcome candidates from an array of backgrounds and experiences to join our team. Learn more about our commitment here: https://westernresourceadvocates.org/#commitment-to-d iversity. 

Western Resource Advocates is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion,  gender, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or veteran status.