Chief Public Affairs Officer (Volunteer) North Alabama Zoological Society (NALZS)
Location:
North Alabama (Hybrid/Flexible)
Position Type:
Volunteer Executive Leadership Compensation:
Volunteer (Unpaid)
Reports To:
President & CEO / Executive Director Position Summary The North Alabama Zoological Society (NALZS) is seeking a dynamic and well-connected Chief Public Affairs Officer (CPAO) to lead the organization's public affairs, government relations, civic engagement, and community partnerships. The CPAO serves as the organization's principal advocate with elected officials, government agencies, civic organizations, business leaders, and community stakeholders. This executive will help build the broad public and political support necessary to bring the North Alabama Zoo to reality. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys building relationships, navigating government processes, speaking publicly, and connecting people around a shared vision. Key ResponsibilitiesGovernment Relations Develop and maintain relationships with city, county, state, and federal elected officials. Advocate for legislation, appropriations, policies, and initiatives that advance the mission of NALZS. Coordinate meetings with legislators, government agencies, and public officials. Represent NALZS during legislative sessions and committee meetings. Make periodic trips to the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery to meet with legislators, agency leaders, and other state officials. Monitor legislation, public policy, and funding opportunities that may impact the organization. Community & Civic Engagement Build strategic partnerships with chambers of commerce, tourism organizations, economic development groups, educational institutions, conservation organizations, and other nonprofit partners. Serve as the organization's ambassador throughout North Alabama. Deliver presentations to civic clubs, businesses, community organizations, and government bodies. Foster broad public awareness and support for the North Alabama Zoo. Public Affairs & Communications Develop public affairs strategies that strengthen NALZS's visibility and credibility. Coordinate messaging with executive leadership and the Board of Directors. Assist with media interviews, press events, and public announcements. Support advocacy campaigns and public information initiatives. Strategic Leadership Advise executive leadership on government relations, legislative priorities, and community engagement strategies. Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships and public funding. Work collaboratively with the Executive Director, Chief Development Officer, and Chief Programs Officer to advance the organization's mission. Desired Qualifications Executive, government, military, nonprofit, business, or public affairs leadership experience. Strong network of relationships throughout North Alabama is highly desirable. Experience working with elected officials, government agencies, or legislative bodies. Excellent public speaking, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders. Strategic thinker with strong political awareness and sound judgment. Passion for conservation, education, and community development. Time Commitment This is a volunteer executive leadership position requiring approximately 10-20 hours per week , with flexibility based on legislative activity, community events, and organizational priorities.
Candidates should expect to:
Attend occasional daytime meetings with elected officials, government agencies, business leaders, and community partners. Participate in evening meetings, Board meetings, civic club presentations, and networking events. Support weekend fundraising events, festivals, and community outreach activities. Make periodic day trips—and occasional overnight trips if needed—to Montgomery during the Alabama legislative session. Be available for periodic strategy meetings with executive leadership. While the schedule is flexible, success in this role requires regular engagement with the community and the ability to represent NALZS professionally throughout North Alabama. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is someone who: Is passionate about building the North Alabama Zoo. Has credibility with community and government leaders. Naturally develops relationships and opens doors. Enjoys advocating for worthwhile community initiatives. Communicates effectively with elected officials, business leaders, and the public. Can inspire support from diverse stakeholders while remaining collaborative and nonpartisan. Wants to leave a lasting legacy for future generations by helping make the North Alabama Zoo a reality.
Pay:
$0.10 - $1.00 per year Application Question(s): Are you able to give 15+ hours a week with some meetings during the day and some in the evenings as well as support weekend events?
