The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce seeks a dynamic Senior Manager of Government Affairs to lead and manage public policy initiatives while providing strategic direction for our Government Affairs department. We're looking for an exceptional facilitator and public speaker who can effectively guide complex discussions and present compelling narratives to diverse audiences. This role is perfect for a highly organized self-starter who can identify and execute strategic opportunities that advance the Chamber's mission. The ideal candidate will take ownership of projects from conception through implementation, demonstrate strong business acumen, and excel at building relationships with key stakeholders.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Facilitation
- Lead and facilitate high-stakes meetings and policy discussions with diverse stakeholder groups
- Drive stakeholder consensus through expert facilitation techniques and collaborative problem-solving
- Deliver compelling presentations to executive leadership, policymakers, and business community
- Guide complex multi-stakeholder dialogues to productive outcomes that advance Chamber priorities
- Organize and execute strategic planning sessions that align with organizational objectives
Strategic Initiatives
- Identify and develop strategic initiatives that advance Chamber objectives and member priorities
- Take full ownership of complex projects from initial conception through successful implementation
- Present comprehensive proposals, progress reports, and results to executive leadership and key stakeholders
- Develop and implement strategic direction for committee and council meetings
- Drive innovation in policy advocacy approaches and stakeholder engagement strategies
Policy Leadership & Advocacy
- Partner with the VP of Government Affairs for comprehensive legislative strategy development and execution during legislative sessions
- Serve as liaison with legislative leadership, elected officials, and key policymakers
- Author position papers, policy briefs, and advocacy materials on critical business issues
- Analyze policy impacts across various industries and translate findings into actionable recommendations
- Transform complex business challenges into compelling policy narratives and legislative solutions
Coalition & Stakeholder Management
- Lead the Colorado Investment Services Coalition (CISC) and coordinate multi-organization advocacy efforts
- Build and maintain executive-level relationships with business leaders, government officials, and community partners
- Manage diverse stakeholder relationships while driving consensus on policy initiatives
- Facilitate cross-sector partnerships that strengthen the regional business climate
Operational Development
- Help develop and manage departmental budgets while ensuring efficient resource allocation
- Drive innovation in digital communications, member engagement, and advocacy tools
- Oversee comprehensive event planning and execution for policy forums and stakeholder meetings
- Manage sponsorship strategies and revenue optimization to support departmental goals
Essential Skills & Experience
- Exceptional facilitation and public speaking abilities with demonstrated success in high-pressure environments
- Outstanding organizational and project management capabilities with proven ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously
- Demonstrated expertise in managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives from conception to successful completion
- 5-7 years of progressive experience in government affairs, public policy, legislative advocacy, or related field
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in public policy, political science, business administration, or related field preferred
Leadership & Strategic Thinking
- Demonstrated ability to take initiative and drive projects from concept to completion with minimal supervision
- Strong business acumen with ability to understand and articulate complex business challenges and opportunities
- Excellence in presenting to and influencing senior executives, elected officials, and external stakeholders
- Proven track record of leading strategic initiatives and managing complex, multi-phase projects
- Advanced knowledge of legislative processes, policy development, and regulatory environments
Communication & Relationship Building
- Superior written and verbal communication skills with ability to adapt messaging for diverse audiences
- Proven track record of building and maintaining relationships with high-level stakeholders
- Experience managing budgets and achieving financial targets while maintaining fiscal responsibility
- Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners to achieve shared objectives
