Chief Public Affairs Officer

The National Association of Counties (NACo), representing America’s 3,069 county governments with 40,000 elected officials, 3.6 million county employees and more than $660 billion in annual community-based investments, seeks a Chief Public Affairs Officer. The Chief Public Affairs Officer (CPAO) is a senior executive responsible for leading NACo’s public affairs. This role involves overseeing a broad portfolio of functions and initiatives to advance the Association’s mission on behalf of county governments nationwide. The CPAO serves as a trusted advisor to the CEO and executive leadership team, providing strategic leadership and execution on branding, communications, media relations, member engagement (including membership and conferences), corporate sponsorships, and overall public and civic engagement. 

 Position Responsibilities and Activities:  

•    Develop and execute a comprehensive public affairs vision and strategy aligned with NACo’s mission, strategic planning framework, and biennial Objectives and Key Results (OKRs)

•    Leading and advising on public affairs functions, including daily management of branding, public policy messaging (with government affairs team), membership services and marketing, conferences and event planning, media and social media, County News, and other related activities

•    Monitor trends in public policy, media, and public opinion to ensure the Association’s positioning remains timely and impactful

•    Develop, coordinate and execute ONE NACo public affairs strategies to enhance the Association’s branding, communications, marketing, outreach and partnership

•    Oversee the development and maintenance of NACo’s brand identity, ensuring consistent messaging and alignment with organizational value and values

•    Lead NACo’s crisis communications efforts, ensuring timely, transparent, and effective responses during sensitive situations

•    Direct print and digital communication strategies, including social media, website content, multimedia production, and County News (newspaper and online)

•    Act as a spokesperson for the organization, as appropriate, and build media relationships

•    Develop initiatives to increase membership engagement and relationship building, as well as communicate the value of NACo’s programs and services

•    Partner with NACo teammates as a senior-level liaison to strategic partners, ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and mutual benefit

•    Provide executive level support for the CEO with overall relationship building and strategic outreach

•    Advance the Association’s understanding, recognition and leadership in intergovernmental affairs through membership, partnership and civic engagement

•    Manage, develop and inspire the public affairs team, providing mentorship, support, and professional development opportunities to increase team engagement

•    Foster a collaborative and innovative environment that encourages creativity, aligns priorities, resources and talent, and maximizes impact

•    Manage budgets and resources related to public affairs functions and activities

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:  

•    Bachelor’s degree or equivalent lived experience in public relations, communications, public administration, public policy, political science, or a related field

•    Advanced degree or equivalent level experience is preferred

•    Proven ability to develop and implement strategic public affairs strategies

•    Minimum 10 years of senior leadership and team management experience 

•    Excellent communication, collaboration, team building and presentation skills

•    Strong understanding of intergovernmental relations and public policy 

•    Strategic thinker with a passion for advancing public service and local government

•    Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment

•    Adaptable, resourceful, and capable of navigating complex challenges

•    Proficiency in leveraging digital tools and platforms for communications and engagement

•    Solid network of contacts across federal, state and local levels

•    Experience in managing large-scale events and communications, ideally within a non-profit or governmental context

•    Inspirational leadership attributes and high emotional intelligence to inspire and guide a diverse team.

Working Conditions:

•    Hybrid work schedule, with requirement of two or more days per week in the DC office 

•    Occasional travel is required for attendance at NACo conferences and events a few times each year 

•    Base Salary Range:  $215,000 – $225,000 (plus variable Annual Performance Bonus)  

Application Procedures:

 Interested candidates should submit a resume to: resumes@naco.org 

Why Work a NACo: 

Our vision is healthy, safe and vibrant counties across America. Counties play an integral part of the intergovernmental responsibilities. We are guided by the belief that stronger counties result in a stronger America. 

NACo is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Our jobs are open to all applications regardless of race, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. 

Teammates of NACo enjoy a fun and challenging environment with a wide range of competitive benefits. Benefits include comprehensive medical, vision and dental insurance; generous paid leave and federal holidays; transportation subsidy; tuition assistance; 401(k) match, pension plans, group life insurance, voluntary payroll deductions for pet insurance, and credit union membership pet insurance, credit union membership and short/long term disability coverage including applicable parental leave and Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. 

At NACo, we embrace and respect our diversity of experience, heritage and perspectives, embedding these principles into our daily routine. We lead with empathy, savor learning opportunities, and embrace our collective experiences for a deeper understanding of different viewpoints from our members, teammates, and partners so we can grow collectively and individually. We value our varied backgrounds and experiences as we pursue an equitable and inclusive workplace that upholds respect and civility and fosters a sense of belonging. 

Join us as we advance excellence in public service to help people and places thrive. 

Salary : $215,000 - $225,000