Director of Government Relations

Are you looking for a career with an organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of working people? Does the idea of working for the largest union in Southern California sound exciting to you?

SEIU Local 721 is a dynamic, and fast growing organization recognized as one of the largest and strongest public employee unions in the nation. We are on the forefront of local politics, defending public services in the face of budget cuts and key players in national reform efforts.  We have over 200 staff members covering 4 counties. Our more than 80,000 members provide public services in diverse fields, including health care, social services, special districts, private non-profits, libraries, courts, parks and recreation, public works and mental health in cities and counties throughout Southern California.

The Director of Government Relations, reports to the Executive Director, and is responsible for overseeing the Union's political and legislative programs and will be responsible for the following:

Represent Local 721 at political and legislative meetings, both internally and externally and serve as primary community and legislative spokesperson.
Develop overall political communications program. 
Design overall budget, fundraising plan, and recommendations for all expenditures, including political contributions. 
Develop a program to increase the involvement of members in the Local's legislative and political programs

Qualified candidates will have a bachelor's degree (master's degree preferred) in political science, economics or related degree and at least five to seven (5-7) years of related work experience and/or a combination of education and experience that would provide for the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

Knowledge of unions, political campaign management, government bodies, issue campaigns concerning working families, and/or progressive organizations and their operations.
Experience in responsible positions in candidate or ballot measure campaigns or local union political organizing. 
Demonstrated successful leadership and management experience in non-profit, government or labor organization of similar size.
Experience in legislative advocacy campaigns.
Ability to work collaboratively with a high-performance management team.
Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
Ability to plan, coordinate and implements successful campaign. 

This position requires an individual who is willing to work long and irregular hours and participate in all union wide activities and is willing to travel and work in different locations for determined periods of time.  This position also requires a valid driver's license, working automobile and valid auto insurance.

We offer a fully paid benefit package including medical, dental, vision and a generous life insurance, 13 paid holidays, and generous vacation.  Salary is commensurate based on experience.

Mail, fax or e-mail a cover letter, detailed resume, salary expectations and the name, job title, and phone number of three professional references to: SEIU Local 721, Human Resources Department, 500 South Virgil Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90020 Fax: (213) 380-3996  E-mail: careers@seiu721.org

We are an affirmative action employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, or disability. SEIU Local 721 works to ensure fair treatment of applicants and employees and actively enforces zero tolerance policies against discrimination and sexual harassment. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.