Introduction
The Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) supports State and local government agencies, as well as local non-profit organizations and the citizens of Maryland, by providing facilities management, real estate and surplus property services, as well as security and law enforcement for State buildings. DGS is also responsible for a full spectrum of facilities engineering, design and construction services, almost $1 billion in annual contract administration, and overseeing the State procurement process. Here at DGS, we truly Do Great Service… Consider joining our team!
GRADE
21
LOCATION OF POSITION
Annapolis, Maryland (hybrid / telework eligible)
Main Purpose of Job
This is a Political Special Appointment position and therefore serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority (“at-will”). The Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) is looking to hire a talented and experienced Director of Government & Legislative Affairs within our Office of External Affairs. The Director will oversee DGS’ Office of Government & Legislative Affairs and will provide updates to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of External Affairs, the Secretary of DGS, and other appropriate executive staff as it relates to legislative activities both during and outside of the annual Legislative Session of the Maryland General Assembly (MGA).
As DGS’ liaison with state, local, and federal governments, as well as elected officials, the Director oversees the effective and efficient functioning of the agency’s legislative office. The Director’s responsibilities include the timely review of state and federal legislation, analysis and input to proposed legislation, tracking of legislation, submission of reports, and editing and completion of fiscal impact statement requests received from the Department of Legislative Services (DLS). The Director manages the completion of information requests from the DLS, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), members and staff of the General Assembly, and others within the Executive and Legislative branches. The Director is required to understand the various operations of the agency and to consult with and advise the DGS divisions, and other relevant Executive Branch agencies, on legislation that may impact the agency and/or the State. The Director is responsible for the drafting (and, in some cases, the presentation) of testimony to legislative committees upon internal agency, Governor’s Legislative Office approval and, if applicable, the DBM. The Director manages and assists in the timely completion, review, editing and submission of mandated reports, and responds to legislative inquiries promptly and completely.
The Director is responsible for the establishment and continued development of legislative relationships, both with elected officials and staff, and the monitoring of live sessions of the Maryland General Assembly, committees and budget hearings.
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, Public Administration, or a related field. Master’s degree in one of these subject areas is preferred.
• At least 10+ years of experience in government relations, legislative affairs, or public policy, with at least 2-3 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Experience working in a government role (e.g., legislative staff, agency advisor) or experience directly engaging with lawmakers in the public and/or private sectors is required.
• Experience within the State of Maryland is highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of legislative processes at the federal, state, and local levels, and proven experience advocating for policy positions and influencing legislative outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex policy issues, develop strategic positions, and craft legislation or regulatory proposals.
• Strong experience building and maintaining relationships with elected officials, legislative staff, government agencies, and key stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey policy positions and legislative priorities to diverse audiences.
BENEFITS
The State of Maryland offers a generous benefits package that includes:
- Tuition reimbursement for those who qualify
- Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities for many positions
- Free mass transit in Baltimore & Annapolis
- Generous paid leave that increases with years of service
- Paid holidays
- Health coverage with low out-of-pocket costs
- Employee & employer contributory pension plan
Click on the link below for more information.
STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
TO APPLY: Interested applicants should e-mail a resume and cover letter by October 18, 2024 to dgs.resumes@maryland.gov – include “Director Government Affairs” in the subject line of the e-mail. For questions, call our HR Office at 410-767-4985. For more information about DGS, please visit: https://dgs.maryland.gov/. DGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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