Colorado Nonprofit Association

Director of Government Relations

Organization: Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA)
Location: On-campus with flexibility as needed
Reports to: Chief Communications and Philanthropy Officer (CCPO)

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves with integrity through our Core Actions: Inspire Awe, Safety, Care, and Connect. We embrace our Core Values of Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.

The Director of Government Relations develops strategies and directs all government relations and advocacy activities to create awareness and secure support for the Zoo’s mission and initiatives. This role involves strategic leadership, collaboration with key stakeholders, and effective communication to further DZCA’s mission and goals.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Lead the vision, strategic direction, and coordination of government relations and advocacy activities.
Collaborate with the CCPO, CEO, Executive Leadership, and Board on stakeholder management and strategy development for government/community relations and engagement.
Communicate the Government Relations strategy, priorities, and initiatives to internal and external stakeholders.
Prepare presentations and reports for the Board of Governors and other key stakeholders.

Legislative Strategy and Policy Advocacy

Oversee legislative processes, ballot initiatives, and advocacy activities.
Manage relationships with local and state lobbyists.
Participate in strategic policy initiatives with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Monitor and influence policies and legislation at the local, state, and regional levels relevant to DZCA.
Cultivate relationships with elected officials, policymakers, and advocacy groups.
Represent DZCA at Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) meetings.

Community Engagement and Partnership Development

Foster relationships with key community organizations, such as local chambers, impacting DZCA’s mission.
Represent DZCA in local partnerships and collaborations.
Build relationships that further public affairs program goals and enhance community impact.

City Relations and Interdepartmental Collaboration

Act as liaison to Denver City Offices, particularly with Denver Parks and Recreation.
Collaborate with the Chief Operating Officer (COO) regarding City bond processes, reporting, and communications.
Work with various city departments (Planning, Forestry, etc.) to build stronger relationships and advance DZCA’s mission.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

Provide support to the Chief Communications and Philanthropy Officer to further departmental goals.
Oversee and communicate budget management for advocacy campaigns and related projects.
Safeguard confidential and proprietary information.
Engage with internal staff and external partners to support organizational objectives.

Job Requirements/Experience

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, business, communications, or a related field required.
Advanced degree in Public Policy or Public Administration preferred.

Experience

Minimum of 7 years managing government and community relations, including strategic planning and advocacy execution.
Strong preference for experience advising C-suite executives and boards on strategy, communication, and legislative/regulatory matters.
Experience with non-profit organizations, including collaboration with lobbyists, is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Expertise in government relations and public affairs strategy.
Strong understanding of local, state, and federal legislative processes.
Proven ability to cultivate relationships with elected officials, policymakers, and stakeholders.
Excellent organizational, communication, negotiation, and collaboration skills.
Adaptability to fast-paced, multi-task environments, and ability to manage sensitive information diplomatically.
Familiarity with AZA and SCFD is preferred.

Position Conditions

Ability to pass background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
Available to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.

Schedule & Work Environment

Monday-Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends.
On-campus with flexibility.

Compensation
The salary range for this position is $8,330 – $10,621 per month.

Application Process & Timelines
Application deadline: January 8, 2024. Review of applications will begin immediately. DZCA reserves the right to close the position prior to this date.

Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and others who identify as nonwhite, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and those with lived experience with racism and/or misogynoir are encouraged to apply for this role.

DZCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status or any other characteristic protected by law.