Public Policy and Government Affairs Manager (46.21) - American States Water Company

Golden State Water Company is one of the largest investor-owned water utilities in the United States.  We deliver quality, reliable water to more than 1 million people in over 80 communities throughout California.  Golden State Water has been in business for more than 90 years because we put customers first.

This position will be located either in San Dimas, CA or Rancho Cordova, CA. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Public Policy and Government Affairs Manager performs professional-level work in the development, coordination and implementation of Golden State Water Company’s (“GSWC” or “Company”) public policy and government affairs program.  The Manager represents GSWC’s interests with various Federal, State and local leaders, and advocates on behalf of GSWC with government agencies and officials. The Manager monitors Federal and State legislative, regulatory and public policy priorities, and briefs and recommends actions to executives on the implications of these activities for GSWC. The Manager coordinates with GSWC’s outside lobbyists and communication consultants to further the public policy objectives, and maintains overall responsibility for implementation of GSWC’s public policy and government affairs strategy. 

Accountability

The Manager reports to the Senior Vice President, Regulated Water Utility, and works closely with the executive leaders and managers across GSWC.  The Manager works in an environment that includes sensitive and confidential data and information; therefore, the Manager must have the ability to achieve policy objectives related to furthering the goals of GSWC in a manner that meets all regulatory and Company requirements for confidentiality of sensitive information.  The incumbent in this position must work independently, exercise initiative and judgment in the performance of a broad range of responsibilities, including the ability to communicate with a diverse group of employees, executives and external consultants to meet the Company’s public policy objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Collaborates with the executives to develop GSWC’s public policy strategy, and develops the GSWC advocacy plan and legislative agenda to meet legislative and regulatory goals, both at the State and Federal levels.
• Monitors and reports on Federal and State legislative and policy priorities, and recommends GSWC actions accordingly.
• Advocates on legislative and regulatory issues through private meetings, public presentations and through building coalitions to meet strategy objectives.  Works closely with GSWC’s outside consultants and lobbyists to develop and execute the governmental affairs strategy. 
• Represents GSWC at legislative hearings, and serves as the Company’s lead in interfacing with State and Federal leaders.  Builds and strengthens relationships with Federal, State and Local leaders representing the communities we serve, as well as leaders of relevant legislative committees, state and local regulatory agencies, and leadership positions.
• Manages GSWC’s state and local political and philanthropic donation program.  Oversees and participates in political and charitable fundraising events and sponsorships.  Develops and refines PAC efforts related to both candidates for public office and ballot measures, and creates and implements a strategic expenditure plan in consultation with the Company’s lobbyists. 
• Closely coordinates communication efforts with the Company’s Community and Customer Education program and vendor.  Ensures consistency in customer and political communications.  Supports the Community and Customer Education vendor in media relations and responses.
• Provides support to General Managers in meeting policy objectives at the local level, and provides direction to local political issues and opportunities. 
• Provides strategic support to the Regulatory Affairs department in aligning California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and California Water Resources Control Board strategy and communications with the overall public affairs and legislative strategies.
• Represents GSWC at industry meetings, both at the local, State and Federal level, and serves on relevant industry committees, boards and organizations to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in political science, public policy, history, business or related fields.
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in areas related to governmental affairs, lobbying, legislative or executive public service, or public affairs duties. 
• Experience in utilities, and general knowledge of California Water Issues and the CPUC’s processes strongly preferred.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, and ability to influence and build coalitions and relationships.

BENEFITS

Our Company supports our employees with rich benefit programs and resources to help them thrive today and prepare for tomorrow.  Benefit options include medical, dental, and vision plans with the Company currently paying 85% of the monthly premium for employees and their eligible dependents.  We also offer paid vacation and sick time and twelve Company paid holidays per year.  To help our employees plan for the future, we offer both a 401(k) retirement plan as well as a Defined Contribution Profit Sharing retirement plan.  Additional benefits include life, AD&D, and LTD insurance as well as health savings account and flexible spending plans.

COMPENSATION INFORMATION

The compensation range provided is in compliance with state specific laws.  Multiple factors are used to determine the actual starting rate of pay for all of our positions, including specific skills, years of experience, education, certification(s), and other job related factors.

The responsibilities of this position will involve access to information that may be considered confidential, private and sensitive. Therefore, the individual filling this position will be required to both allow and pass a background check.

NOTE: Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with special needs to perform the essential functions.