Senior Vice President - Government Affairs

Summary

The Senior Vice President of Government Affairs will serve as a pivotal leader in advancing the organization's objectives through the development and execution of strategic engagement initiatives. This role is responsible for cultivating and managing high-impact relationships with key stakeholders across the greater Los Angeles region, with a focus on government entities, civic leaders, and related business partners. The ideal candidate is a dynamic and seasoned professional with deep expertise in government affairs, strategic planning, business development, and public sector engagement.

The SVP will serve as the organization's Chief Negotiator for franchise and municipal contracts, leading the development of comprehensive strategies that position the company competitively in the public sector. This executive will help lead the organization's government affairs strategy, guide high-level negotiations, and provide strategic counsel to strengthen the organization's market position, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive long-term growth.

Job Description

• Essential Job Functions:

• Develop, plan and execute strategic government affairs initiatives that align with the company's long-term goals and objectives.

• Build and maintain relationships with key local, regional, and public-sector leaders, elected officials, community stakeholders, and industry partners.

• Serve as the company's Chief Negotiator for franchise and municipal contracts, developing and executing negotiation strategies that drive favorable outcomes.

• Represent the organization in key contract negotiations with potential and existing city clients.

• Monitor legislative and regulatory activities, providing insights and recommendations to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.

• Collaborate with executive leadership to develop business strategies that align with market trends and policy developments.

• Lead risk management efforts related to government affairs and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards.

• Provide guidance to business unit executives and facility leaders to optimize profitability and strengthen civic contracts.

• Mentor and direct the government affairs team, working closely with Area Presidents to implement government affairs strategy across the business.

• Represent the company at city, business, and community events as well as industry and public agency associations.

• Analyze lost business opportunities and propose corrective actions.

• Drive process improvements, including the use of technology solutions, to enhance operational efficiency.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the successful implementation of strategic plans and initiatives.

• Oversee the preparation of weekly and monthly activity reports and participate in annual department planning and budgeting.

• Identify opportunities for market expansion, diversification, and innovation to support growth objectives.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of leadership experience in government affairs, public administration, or a related field.
• Proven Government Affairs experience of working in the Los Angeles and surrounding areas (Ventura, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties) political landscape.
• Proven track record of working with public sector leaders, navigating complex political dynamics, and influencing legislative and regulatory processes.
• Proven experience of leading high-level negotiations across multiple cities and counties.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate contracts and lead complex initiatives.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word/Excel/PowerPoint) and data analysis tools.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in a related field (e.g., Business Administration or Public Administration).
• Experience in the waste management or environmental services industry.
• Proven ability to implement successful strategic initiatives that drive business growth and operational excellence.
• Commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Salary: $300,000 +

Benefits:

• Competitive wages
• Comprehensive benefit package Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401K
• Life Insurance
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Career plan
• Recognition programs
• Professional development learning
• An exceptional work environment

Athens will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and any other applicable state, federal or local laws. EEO/M/F/disability/veteran