Responsibilities

• Governmental affairs staff evaluate pending legislation, determine legislation's impact on their organization and develop the organization's response. These individuals build relationships with federal, state and local authorities and regulatory agency heads. They also develop government affairs strategies, enhance the organization's image among authorities and write testimony and talking points for campaigns. This role may also include working with colleagues and other organizations to obtain media coverage and develop effective public awareness campaigns.
  
  

Qualifications

• Governmental affairs positions require at least a bachelor's degree. A master's degree or law degree is often preferred. The experience requirements depend upon the position level. For example, candidates for a manager of governmental affairs position may need three to five years experience, whereas a director may need five to seven years and a vice president at least 10 years. Other qualifications employers seek include experience managing relationships with lobbyists and consultants; a thorough understanding of legislative processes; a proven track record of advocacy; and current relationships with elected officials and policymakers.
  
  

Skills

• In addition to education and previous experience, employers may seek personal attributes in candidates such as excellent writing, presentation and speaking skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills, effective leadership and strategic thinking. Other skills include the ability to work both independently and as part of a team and to build and maintain internal and external partnerships. Previous knowledge of the organization's area of focus may also be sought.
  
  

Employment Settings

• Governmental affairs staff are typically employed by large corporations, nonprofit organizations, universities and hospitals. Travel is often required for meetings with elected officials and policymakers.
  
  

Salary Information

• According to the PayScale website, as of May 2010, the average annual salary of a governmental affairs manager ranged from $52,000 to $101,000, while a vice president averaged $100,000 to $195,000. This may vary by employment setting and years of experience.