Director, Government Affairs

Director, Government Affairs

The Director, Government Affairs is responsible for overseeing legislative and regulatory affairs and all engagement with government officials for Optimum in Connecticut. The Director develops and executes targeted political, legislative, and regulatory strategies that support and advance the company's business objectives, including implementing community affairs initiatives. The Director is also accountable for building and maintaining strong relationships with key federal, state, and local officials throughout Connecticut.

Responsibilities

Government Affairs Leadership : Build and manage strategic relationships with state and local elected officials across Connecticut. Represent the company at political functions, public hearings, and community events to promote its interests and visibility.

Legislative & Regulatory Strategy : Lead the company's legislative, regulatory, and compliance advocacy in Connecticut. This includes developing strategic plans and engaging in day-to-day legislative and regulatory proceedings.

Business Development Support : Develop and implement government strategies that support business initiatives, including permitting for network expansion and upgrades, public-private partnerships, and programming negotiations.

Community Affairs Strategy : Execute community affairs initiatives that enhance the company's public image and strengthen relationships with public officials and community stakeholders.

Lead engagement with federal, state, and local government officials across Connecticut.

Monitor and assess legislative and regulatory developments that may impact the company; identify key issues and lead the development of strategic responses.

Maintain and deepen relationships with key public officials, including state legislators, municipal leaders, and regulatory agencies.

Manage external consultants supporting regulatory and legislative efforts in the state.

Develop and implement community affairs initiatives aligned with political and business objectives.

Qualifications

8+ years experience in government, government affairs / relations or other advocacy roles

College degree or equivalent experience is required, graduate level degree is preferred

Excellent relationship skills, written and verbal communication and presentation skills

Track record of developing and executing strategic advocacy campaigns and driving support for policy outcomes at state or local level

Team building skills, including ability to work effectively with colleagues within the advocacy team and with cross-functional business teams.

Leadership skills, including ability to advance company interests in venues that require consensus building

Flexibility and creativity in problem solving, particularly in negotiations with government officials and agencies

Ability to build and maintain relationships with federal, state and local government officials

Ability to analyze and understand business impact of proposed legislation and regulations at federal, state and local level

Working knowledge of CT regulatory, legislative and municipal processes

Ability to plan and execute public affairs activities including events involving public officials