GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS MANAGER

Coordinates and promotes the City's legislative program and administers the grant program. Performs related work as required. An employee in this classification is responsible for facilitation, communication, information sharing, strategic planning and overall positive proactive relations with local, state, and federal government. Identifies, develops and coordinates intergovernmental resources available to the City; secures grants, and monitors the administration of such programs. Promotes and represents the interests of the City in State and Federal governing bodies; Seeks input from staff, Mayor and City Council as to issues needing legislative or regulatory agency action; Directs positive governmental relations by developing processes and procedures to ensure effective liaison between the City and other governmental officials; Assists in interpretation and analysis on proposed and new legislation for appropriate staff; Assists in the preparation of draft legislation; Identifies potential legislative issues and funding sources; Assists in acting as liaison between the City and State and Federal agencies; Develops and maintains meaningful professional contacts with local, state and federal appointed and elected officials; Investigates, researches and analyzes legislation relating to federal, state and local grant-in-aid programs; Establishes and maintains contact with federal, state and local agencies to ensure that presentation of proposals and applications for funds are handled appropriately; Coordinates the preparation of grant applications and proposals; Assists City department directors in the administration of grants; Informs the staff of changes in local, state and federal law, regulations, and rules which may affect policy and procedural decisions; Provides the staff and Council with current copies of local, state and federal legislation and coordinates timely reports on the state of pending legislation; Coordinates the City's Administrative Regulations; Bachelor degree with major course work in public or business administration, or a related field plus three years responsible experience in grants writing and administration, and three years experience in lobbying or government relations OR Associate degree with major course work in public or business administration, or a related field plus five years responsible experience in grants writing and administration, and five years experience in lobbying or government relations. Possession of a valid Florida driver's license. Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of lobbying and the interrelationships between governmental entities; Thorough knowledge of all federal, state and local programs, laws and regulatory requirements; Some knowledge of research techniques and the sources and availability of current information; Ability to initiate and install administrative programs and procedures and to evaluate their effectiveness; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees and the general public; Ability to follow complex oral and written instructions; Ability to express one's self effectively orally and in writing. Ability to operate an automobile; Ability to handle stress.