State Government & Regulatory Affairs Rep Staff

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The State Government & Regulatory Affairs Rep. Staff is responsible for leading, developing and maintaining state government and regulatory agency, elected/appointed officials and non-governmental organization relationships in all areas where Williams operates for project advocacy, business growth, operations and project execution support – with a particular focus on the West Texas. This role will track, report and influence the development of state legislation, regulation and policies that could affect our organization.

The team will align advocacy with business priorities for existing and prospective operational areas. This role will primarily support efforts at the state and local level, but certain policies and issues may need to be coordinated at a federal level or with other members of the team. The ability to develop and implement a comprehensive issues management process that nurture relationships, collaborate with others to assess and act upon key issues, contribute as a team member and lead cross functional teams without formal leadership authority are keys to success.

Responsibilities/Expectations:

• Establishes and cultivates executive relationships with state and local government leaders, policymakers, and regulatory agencies to represent the company position on issues
• Influences relevant policies and regulations and develops/enhances the reputation of the company
• Builds lasting relationships that help to establish trust, mitigate potential obstacles, convey our priorities and strategies and sustain efforts in new communities
• Supports leadership with updates on material legislative and regulatory developments; develops company position papers, collateral, fact sheets and presentations
• Participates in technical partner groups, industry trade associations, coalitions, and other advisory/industry committees; drives the agenda for business impact
• Supports development of implementation plans and tools for when new regulations or rules take effect; provides a strategy for addressing high risk issues
• Engages state and local officials, peers, and other key influencers in an effort to educate them about our industry and our business
• Willingness to travel, as needed, to states or cities within the individual’s coverage area
• Ability to manage outside consultants and work closely with both internal and external audiences
• Understand and manage department budgets   
• Other duties as assigned

Education/Years of Experience:

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in business, political science or communications; a minimum of ten (10) years' direct experience in government affairs, customer/business partner relations or related field
• Preferred: Master’s degree in law, business, political science or communications; a minimum of fifteen (15) years' experience as staff in a State House, Governor's office, or federal congressional office within the specific geographic region assigned

Other Requires Experience:

• Demonstrates excellent organizational/interpersonal skills and safety as the utmost priority
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications and PC skills
• An understanding of energy policy, with a specific focus on legislation and/or the regulatory process
• Ability to work with elected officials across the political spectrum to build support and consensus
• Understands corporate communications tools and implementation with internal and external audiences
• Detailed understanding of the legislative process/rules and practice of government and regulatory affairs and outreach
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills
• Able to establish excellent rapport with individuals on all levels, specifically senior leaders and officials
• Ability to work under high pressure in a dynamic environment and collaborate across a matrixed organization
• Preferred: Experience in political or issues campaigns
• Travel Requirements: Approximately 50% travel is expected to support project, and business needs
• This role is expected to be based in either the Houston office or the Midland/Odessa region

Why Houston? 

Big career opportunities in one of the world’s energy capitals, endless food spots and a diverse vibe—all without paying NYC or LA prices. Work hard, live better. Check out Houston.org to learn more.

We invest in our people in ways that actually show up in your day-to-day, not just on paper. Our Total Rewards are built to support how you work, live, and plan for what’s next.

Here’s a look at what that means:

• Strong pay plus an annual incentive program
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage with options that fit your life, not the other way around
• 401(k) with company match and an annual company contribution
• Paid time off, including company and floating holidays
• Paid parental leave (up to six weeks per parent), plus fertility and adoption support
• Advanced AI tools and resources to help level up and work smarter
• Clear paths to grow your career, with a strong culture of promoting from within
• Tuition reimbursement and support for continuing education
• HSA and FSA options
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Domestic partner benefits
• Employee resource groups, wellness support, paid volunteer time, and company matching for causes you care about

Eligibility and benefits are governed by the terms of the applicable plan or program document which can be amended or terminated at any time.

For more information, please visit Total Rewards | Williams Companies.

Williams is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other basis protected under applicable discrimination law.

Education Requirements:

Skill Requirements: