Government Affairs Director

The Government Affairs Director is responsible for advancing and administering local, state, and national governmental affairs activities in support of the real estate industry. This role ensures that the association remains an influential voice in protecting property rights, promoting homeownership, and advocating for REALTOR® priorities. It involves collaboration with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), Washington REALTORS®, local lawmakers, and other stakeholders.

Essential Responsibilities

1. Committee Liaison

- Serve as the staff liaison to the Governmental Affairs Committee.

- Collaborate with the committee chair to set agendas, identify guest speakers, and lead discussions on key advocacy priorities.

- Educate committee members on federal, state, and local issues affecting REALTORS® and homeowners.

- Facilitate the creation of issue priorities, action strategies, and meeting minutes.

2. Policy Advocacy

- Research and monitor local legislative and regulatory issues affecting property rights, homeownership, and the real estate market.

- Provide testimony and public comment on ordinances, zoning, and other legislative matters that impact REALTORS®.

- Actively engage with local, state, and federal lawmakers and regulators to educate them on association positions.

3. National and State Collaboration

- Work with NAR to advocate on federal issues and candidates, including Calls for Action and other REALTOR® Party initiatives.

- Collaborate with Washington REALTORS® on state-level policy priorities, candidates, and advocacy campaigns.

4. REALTOR® Party Initiatives

- Lead REALTOR® Party efforts, including executing Calls for Action and encouraging member participation in advocacy programs like the Broker Involvement Program.

- Apply for and manage grants from REALTOR® Party initiatives to support local advocacy efforts.

- Use the Land Use Initiative to evaluate and influence local ordinances and policies.

5. REALTOR® Political Action Committee (RPAC)

- Serve as staff liaison to the RPAC Committee.

- Develop and implement a strategic plan to meet RPAC fundraising and investment goals.

- Ensure compliance with all state and federal RPAC regulations, including campaign contribution reporting.

- Assist the RPAC Committee and CEO in identifying and supporting candidates who align with REALTOR® priorities.

- Organize fundraising events and campaigns to support RPAC investments.

6. Coalition Building

- Build and strengthen relationships with local coalitions, business organizations, and advocacy groups to advance association priorities.

- Represent the association in community forums, coalitions, and partnerships that align with real estate industry goals.

7. Member Education and Engagement

- Write articles for newsletters, blogs, and other communication channels to educate members on advocacy efforts, key legislative issues, and supported candidates.

- Host educational sessions and workshops for members to increase awareness of advocacy programs and the importance of political engagement.

- Manage and grow a robust Key Contact Program to ensure REALTORS® are effectively represented in local government decisions.

8. Ordinances, Zoning, and Local Advocacy

- Monitor and analyze local ordinances, zoning changes, and land use regulations, and recommend strategies for engagement.

- Coordinate with the Government Affairs Committee to develop responses to proposed changes.

- Proactively engage with city and county planners to advocate for policies that support housing affordability, property rights, and balanced development.

9. Strategic Initiatives and Reporting

- Develop and execute an annual government affairs plan aligned with association goals.

- Provide reports to the CEO, Board of Directors, and committees on advocacy efforts, legislative priorities, and progress toward strategic objectives.

- Track and evaluate the impact of advocacy efforts on member outcomes and community policies.

10. Event and Program Support

- Assist in planning and hosting advocacy-related events, such as town halls, candidate interviews, legislative days, and REALTOR® advocacy training.

- Support broader association events to promote government affairs programs and member involvement.

11. Community and Public Relations

- Act as the association’s public policy spokesperson, delivering clear and consistent messaging on advocacy priorities to stakeholders and the media.

- Foster positive relationships with the community to enhance the association’s influence and reputation.

Additional Responsibilities

- Professional Development: Stay informed about legislative trends, regulatory changes, and REALTOR® Party programs through ongoing training and participation in relevant conferences.

- Technology and Communication: Utilize digital tools, such as newsletters, social media, and email campaigns, to effectively communicate advocacy priorities and member calls to action.

- Key Contact Program Coordination: Expand and manage a Key Contact Program to strengthen communication between REALTORS® and local government representatives.

- Grant Applications and Management: Secure funding for advocacy initiatives through NAR and other relevant programs, ensuring proper reporting and utilization.

- Member Advocacy Engagement: Develop initiatives to educate and involve members in local government activities, such as city council meetings, planning commission hearings, and public forums.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in public relations and government affairs
• Strong communication and writing skills, with a focus on legislation
• Expertise in media relations and public speaking
• Proficient in negotiation and editing, with a background in journalism
• Experience with social media management, press releases, and strategic planning
• Familiarity with budgeting, legal drafting, and fundraising initiatives

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $24.00 - $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $24 - $28