Jobs

Director, State Government Affairs

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) seeks to design a more sustainable, livable, and beautiful world. Landscape architects create city master plans, design ecosystems, develop innovative park projects like the High Line in New York City, roll out bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, and renew residential landscapes. ASLA represents some 15,000 landscape architects in the U.S. and around the world.

ASLA has an opening for an experienced Director of State Government Affairs.

Nature of the Position:  

• Develops, implements and directs the Society’s state government affairs programs. Represents and advocates ASLA interests with external audiences, including state legislatures, state agencies, and other organizations.
• Plans and implements ASLA’s state government affairs programs; works with elected officers, board members, chapters, and committees to identify issues and set priorities for state advocacy; provides oversight and direction for department staff and contract support services related to state advocacy.
• Serves as ASLA spokesperson on government affairs issues; provides regular communications/ updates on legislative and regulatory issues of concern for the leadership and general membership.
• Coordinates department communications, including regular review and maintenance of departmental web pages.
• Supports the VP Government Affairs, and serves as staff liaison to the Licensure Committee and Policy Committee, and other special study groups, task forces, and/or representatives as needed.
• Serves as the Society’s primary spokesperson on licensure and as liaison with other organizations engaged in licensing campaigns.  Develops and directs licensure programs, including an annual chapter advocacy summit and a licensure information clearinghouse; provides on-site assistance to ASLA chapters; and provides regular licensure updates for members and leadership.

Experience/skills:
 
BA degree required; degree in public policy or related field preferred. Minimum 10 years’ experience in government relations with broad knowledge of state government legislative processes; budget management and supervisory experience a plus. Knowledge of landscape architecture-related issues, including licensure, livable communities, transportation and land use policies, and other environmental issues a plus.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office computer applications. In-depth knowledge or government processes and lobbying strategies. Ability to work with committees and volunteer leadership. Strong consensus-building and facilitation skills. Must develop a broad knowledge of the landscape architecture profession and relevant public policies issues/areas.

Apply with:

Resume, two writing samples, and salary requirement are all required to apply for the position. Please send all required information to HR@asla.org.