Director, State Government Relations

Job Title: Director, State Government Relations

Location: Sacramento, CA 

Reports to: VP, State Government Relations

Hours: Full-time

FSLA: Exempt

Travel: Estimated 15%

Salary: $110,000-130,000/yr

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About California Life Sciences

California Life Sciences (CLS) is the state’s most impactful life sciences membership organization, advocating for the sector and its diverse innovation pipeline. For more than 30 years, CLS has served the community by supporting companies of all sizes, from early-stage innovators and startups to established industry leaders in the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology. As integral components of a healthy and collaborative ecosystem, CLS also works closely with universities, academic and research institutions, the investment community, and other critical partners that promote this vibrant sector. With offices in South San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Los Angeles, and Washington DC, CLS works to shape public policy, improve access to breakthrough technologies, educate lawmakers, and advance equity within our ecosystem by championing innovative solutions for some of the most pressing challenges of our times. In doing so, CLS fulfills its mission to protect and nurture California’s life sciences industry, empowering discoveries that lead to healthier lives around the world. #WeAreCaliforniaLifeSciences

CLS currently offers a full suite of team member benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, LTD, STD, and Group Life insurance, 401(k) plans with matching, FSA and HSA options, and a generous paid time off and paid holiday schedule.

CLS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Job Summary:

The CLS Director of State Government Relations is a full-time, Sacramento based position, reporting directly to the Vice President of State Government Relations. This position serves as an advocate for the life sciences community with California state elected officials, the Governor’s office, regulatory agencies, and staff. Primary responsibilities of this role include working closely with CLS member companies, key stakeholders, and policymakers to identify and advance policy objectives and issue campaigns to create a favorable environment for California’s growing life sciences industry.

Primary responsibilities:

• Identify and advocate for policies which promote the growth of California’s life sciences industry.

• Help implement integrated government relations, communications, and advocacy strategies to influence favorable outcomes on key issues. 

• Establish relationships and regular contact with legislators, staff, the Governor’s office, and key state agencies, providing input and testimony on issues important to the life sciences community.

• Monitor legislative and regulatory activity, secure bill sponsors, and prepare letters, briefing documents, testimony, position papers, etc., advocating CLS policy positions.

• Support CLS issue education events with state and local elected officials throughout California, which includes caucus events, roundtables, facility tours, meet and greets, etc.

• Develop relationships with like-minded business groups and other stakeholders in California.

• Support grassroots advocacy programs engaging CLS members and their California sites in legislative action and education efforts.

• Support CLS working groups on key policy priorities and issue areas, keeping work group members updated on CLS advocacy efforts and outcomes.

• Help manage the CLS state government relations and legislative strategy committees.

• Coordinate with CLS Federal Government Affairs team on issues of mutual concern.

• Additional duties as required.

Background and Experience:

• B.A. or B.S. required; M.A, M.S., or JD a plus.

• 3-5 years of government relations, advocacy, policy, campaign, or public affairs experience.

• Experience working with California state elected officials, government agencies, and staff.

• Experience building and managing impactful relationships with stakeholder organizations.

• Experience implementing strategic, multi-dimensional issue campaigns.

• Ability to develop and execute messaging/communication plans, both internally and externally.

• Excellent presentation and written communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and to manage multiple projects.

• Demonstrated record of strong bipartisan collaboration.

• Models the organization’s core values of Impact, Integrity, Community, Equity, and Collaboration.

• Availability to support and attend frequent early morning and late evening events (with advance notice).