Job Description

Director, Government Affairs Saint Louis Zoo (including Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park) located in Saint Louis, Missouri Reports to: Chief People and Culture Officer & General Counsel Position Summary The Saint Louis Zoo is looking for a dynamic team member to help lead our Government Affairs work. The Director of Government Affairs will continue to develop and lead the Zoo's government relations strategy at the federal, state, and local levels. This role involves building and maintaining relationships with government officials, community and corporate partners, and agencies to advance the Zoo’s policy goals and advocate for the industry as a whole. Together with the Zoo’s external government affairs consulting firms/lobbyists, the Director monitors and analyzes legislative and regulatory developments, manages lobbying efforts, and advises the Zoo’s leadership on relevant policy matters. This person would be the Zoo’s only full‑time GIS dedicated 100% of their time to Government Affairs work. The position is part of the People and Culture Division and will work closely with the General Counsel, DEAI/Community Relations, executive leaders, Public Relations, Marketing Communications, and outside consultants. Responsibilities Build upon, evaluate, and adjust the Zoo’s overall government affairs strategy, serving as the main contact with government entities and advising leadership on policy issues. Build relationships with public officials, lead lobbying/advocacy/educational efforts, draft documents, and monitor legislative changes affecting the organization. Analyze policy impacts, inform stakeholders, build coalitions, engage community and business leaders, and manage consultants. Advance political relationships and/or initiatives on behalf of the Zoo. Internally communicate the Zoo’s advocacy efforts and positions to team members. Oversee external consultants/lobbyists that advocate and educate on behalf of the Zoo and the broader industry. Educate lawmakers and policymakers on critical policies that protect or advance the Zoo’s interests. With the General Counsel, ensure compliance with all applicable laws and ethics requirements. Represent the Zoo at a wide range of policy, political, and community meetings, events, etc. Help conduct tours of the Zoo’s campuses. Attend Board meetings as required to provide updates. Serve on the Zoo’s cross‑functional Vision “Community” Team to align with external partners. Serve as a primary conduit with the ZMD Board, elected officials, and other key stakeholders on critical projects. May be asked to represent the Zoo in industry groups, associations, or task forces. Qualifications 5‑7 years of experience in government affairs or related fields, with a proven ability to build relationships with government officials and manage multiple priorities. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required; advanced or law degree preferred. Excellent oral and written communication, strategic thinking, negotiation, and sound judgment. Proven ability to communicate the Zoo’s mission and policy positions. Excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate with leadership, internal teams, and external partners. Comprehensive knowledge of public policy systems and experience developing, implementing, and evaluating advocacy strategies. Ability to work with policymakers and elected officials on a nonpartisan or bipartisan basis. Strategic and tactical thinking capabilities. Knowledge of the nuances of working for a tax‑supported public institution with diverse stakeholders. High degree of emotional intelligence and alignment with the Zoo’s values. All successful candidates will be required to submit to a criminal background check. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Prioritize work across multiple campuses with differing priorities. Additional Expectations Willingness to travel to and work at all Zoo locations/campuses, including WildCare Park, and attend meetings throughout the St. Louis region. Travel to Jefferson City, Missouri, AZA conferences, and potentially Washington, D.C. for advocacy and relationship‑building activities. Remote work may be required; periodic weekend and evening events possible. This job description is not all-inclusive; additional related duties may be assigned. Seniority level Director Employment type Full‑time Job function Other Industries Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos #J-18808-Ljbffr Saint Louis Zoo

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