Shedd Aquarium

About Shedd Aquarium

The Director of Government and Community Affairs will work directly with the Vice President of Public Relations and External Affairs to develop, maintain and cultivate strategic relationships with local and state elected officials, agencies, boards, commissions, community groups, civic organizations and other critical stakeholders to help advance Shedd's mission with a specific focus on operations, funding and external partnerships objectives. Serves as an advisor on complex and strategic issues to Shedd Aquarium leadership to advance the organization's holistic political and legislative agenda. Collaborates with colleagues across multiple departments and teams including Learning and Community, Conservation Programs and Partnerships, Development, Public Relations and Communications, Human Resources, Facilities and more. Manages annual departmental budgeting process and assists the Vice President along with other department Directors in setting strategic direction for the External Affairs and Communications department. Duties & Responsibilities: Demonstrates commitment to Shedd's vision, mission and values. Understands the political make-up of Illinois and can develop strategies in that environment to advance and promote efforts based on Shedd's mission. Maintains and nurtures strong external relationships and partnerships with local, state, national and international elected officials, associated authorities, community influencers and other public and private stakeholders to advance and elevate the aquarium's reputation, leadership, and operational impact. Leads analysis of proposed legislative and/or community actions, determines the potential impact on the organization and develops appropriate responses. Advises in the establishment of institutional strategies, policies and plans. Organizes one-on-one and meetings with aquarium leaders and experts to engage officials, stakeholders and corporate and civic leaders to advance priorities and partnerships. Clearly articulates the organization's impacts, contributions, positions and strategies verbally and through compelling written and visual materials. Plans and implements special projects and initiatives, community partner activities, speaking engagements. Actively participates in function-related social engagements as a representative of Shedd. Attends public and civic meetings, conferences, standing committees, business and civic luncheons, fundraising and network opportunities and other business as determined. Can comprehend technical language into easily digestible formats for team members. Mobilizes and educates partners and supporters for public hearings, events and outreach. Prepares required reporting information including local, state and/or federal lobbying reports and other reporting as necessary. Monitors key community entities and local/neighborhood initiatives/meetings that affect Shedd Aquarium. Maintains contacts data base and engagements with elected and government officials and key community leaders and organizations. Serve as external “face” of Shedd Aquarium and contact for key community representatives and neighborhood groups. Manage timelines, budgets, agency partners and project teams in a highly organized and efficient fashion. Represent departmental and institutional interests at internal and external meetings. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications: Education: Bachelor's degree in communications, public affairs, public relations, political science or related field. Experience & Skills: This position requires a sound working knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes gained through 7 or more years previous experience in a responsible position working with government or in the private sector. Strong communication skills including the ability to write for different audiences; be a highly competent and effective public speaker; and can work effectively with people who have different views. Excellent team player with experience working in multi-disciplinary groups, using influence and interpersonal skills, listening, diplomacy and tact to build strong relationships with governments, corporations, partners, donors, volunteers, and all levels of staff. Strong project management experience – working with colleagues across different disciplines to drive activity to completion, delivering against deadlines, and reporting on progress Experience with key Chicago public offices strongly preferred. In-depth understanding of local government operations, policy and protocol. Demonstrated ability to interact with government officials and senior executives. Characteristics: Bilingual in Spanish is preferred. Positive attitude! Interest in conservation, zoo/aquarium, non-profit, cultural institutions and strong desire to excel in this industry. Must be available 24/7 via cell phone (with exception of scheduled vacations) AND able to work flexible hours including early mornings, nights and weekends as necessary Must be comfortable with the rigor and demands of the fast-paced government relations field. Strategic thinker with excellent written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and strong public speaking skills. Self-starter with the ability to work independently and bring projects from start to finish. We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. If you need a reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. In your application, please feel free to select which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs).

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Company Info

Company Type: Nonprofit

Company Size: 51 - 250

Revenue: 25 - 100 million (USD)

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