Assistant Director of Government Relations

The Port of Long Beach (the Port) is conducting an extensive search for an exceptional and innovative leader to serve as its Assistant Director of Government Relations. This position, which was recently established, will be responsible for developing and advancing the Port’s legislative priorities as well as overseeing key staff (a total of 7 staff) in external and government relations. The Government Relations team leads the charge in building powerful connections between the Port of Long Beach and key decision-makers, whether elected officials, legislative staff, agency leaders, or appointed officials at the local, state, and federal levels. With a sharp focus on shaping the future, the Government Relations Division goes beyond just outreach, offering expert legislative analysis and advocacy to push the Port's initiatives forward with a mission of championing the Port's vital programs and secure the funding needed to keep it thriving and ahead of the curve!

For top consideration, strong contenders will have a demonstrated track record of success and a career history of being politically savvy, extremely astute, and apolitical. This position demands frequent communication with elected/appointed officials within the City of Long Beach as well as other local municipalities and regional agencies. Additionally, high-level involvement at the State Capitol in Sacramento will be necessary to help shape policy relating to Port priorities. There will also be an emphasis on communication with national agencies in Washington D.C. such as the Department of Commerce (DOC), and Department of Transportation (DOT).

Technical Skills Required

• Familiarity with the federal, state, and local legislative process is required
• Must have exposure to broad-based issues, including the legislative and political process, and an understanding of the factors affecting legislative policy development
• Must have a broad working knowledge of the principles and methods of legislative analysis
• Must know about public agency programs, policies, and operations, and related legislative, intergovernmental relations, legislative terminology, community relations, and public relations issues and challenges
• Knowledge of international trade, supply chain management, and contract management.
• Must have knowledge of state and local legal requirements and guidelines governing the conduct of public meetings

Desirable

• A Master's Degree, MBA, or Law/JD degree is desirable
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and court decisions applicable to the Port or related programs, operations, and policies is preferred.
• Prior Port or City experience is desired

The Port of Long Beach has established an annual salary range of $172,840.47 - $241,977.08 (placement depends on qualifications). An attractive package of executive-level benefits is included with the opportunity to work in one of the most diverse and dynamic areas of the United States.

CANDIDATE CONNECT (INFORMATION SESSION)

To learn more about this exciting career opportunity and the Port of Long Beach, please join our virtual information session on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 @ 5:00 pm PDT via MS Teams. This is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about the position, speak directly with hiring leaders, ask questions, and learn why the Port of Long Beach is your employer of choice! Candidates are not required to be on camera. To join audio only, call +1 323-451-1087, Phone Conference ID: 763 210 897# Click here to join the meeting. 

The final filing date for this recruitment is Friday, May 30, 2025 @ 11:59 pm PDT. 

To be considered for this opportunity, please submit a cover letter and resume to apply@ralphandersen.com by the closing date. This is a confidential recruitment and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the process. Candidates should be aware that references will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established.

Individuals most qualified for the position will be invited to participate in the selection process, which may include a work-related assessment to evaluate candidate qualifications further. First and second-round panel interviews are scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025 (virtual) and Friday, June 26, 2025 (in-person). Candidates should ensure availability on both dates. The successful candidate will be appointed shortly thereafter. References will be completed for finalist candidates; an employment offer is contingent on conducting a comprehensive background check.

The Port reserves the right to extend the closing date without notice in order to accept additional applications. Those individuals determined to be most qualified for the position will be invited to participate in the selection process. 

Confidential inquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Fred Wilson, Ralph Andersen & Associates, at (916) 630-4900.