SUMMARY
Responsible for directing, developing, and maintaining effective relationships with federal, state, regional, and local government entities that influence the financing, development, and operations of Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. Provides leadership and oversight of the Office of Government and Community Affairs, including management of daily operations and strategic initiatives. Serves as the primary liaison to key governmental bodies, including county commissions, the Atlanta City Council, the Georgia General Assembly, and the United States Congress. Engages elected officials and their staff to advocate for policies, funding, and initiatives that support MARTA’s priorities. Leads the development and execution of MARTA’s legislative agenda and monitors relevant legislative and regulatory activity. Collaborates with partner agencies such as the Federal Transit Administration, United States Department of Transportation, Georgia Department of Transportation, Atlanta Regional Commission, Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority, and other regional stakeholders to advance shared transportation goals. Advises executive leadership and the Board of Directors on legislative developments, political activity, and policy changes that may impact the organization. Cultivates strategic external partnerships and plays a key role in influencing governmental funding to support MARTA’s mission.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Responsible for directing the day-to-day operations of the Office of Government & Community Affairs. Plans, develops, and implements long and short-range Office programs and strategies based on the Authority's and Department's goals, objectives, and strategic plan. Consults with and advises management and employees on issues related to the Office's operations and impact on Authority goals. Informs executive-level management of legislative actions and policies.
2. Establishes, communicates, and directs work programs for Office to meet goals and objectives; develops and presents the budget for the Office.
3. Coordinates MARTA's Legislative Program.
4. Coordinates the building of political coalitions supportive of MARTA's specific interests and public transportation, in general.
5. Provides general direction to, and oversight of, the coordination of the Authority's relations with the Federal Transit Administration and other Federal agencies, as necessary.
6. Represents the Authority on Office matters with local/community groups and organizations, professional associations, and other similar groups.
7. Performs other related duties as assigned, including Transit Ambassador assignments.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Directly supervises Government Affairs Managers. Interviews, hires, and develops subordinate personnel; set standards and evaluates performance of employees; provides feedback, coaches, disciplines, and discharges as appropriate.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Administration, or a related field is required; a law degree is preferred. A minimum of eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in government relations, public affairs, legislative affairs, or public-sector strategy is required, with a strong emphasis on federal and state legislative advocacy. At least four (4) years of management experience is required.
Demonstrated experience working with state and/or local government entities is required. Experience working in or with departments of transportation, aviation authorities, or other state agencies is preferred. Strong knowledge of public procurement processes and capital funding mechanisms is required, along with familiarity with infrastructure funding programs, including state budgets, bond programs, Capital Investment Grants (CIG), and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Proven ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with elected officials and senior agency leadership, as well as excellent written, verbal, and strategic communication skills. A strong understanding of the state and federal political environment is required. Relevant experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.
Grade: 24
Salary Range: $98,000-$147,000
MARTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Administration, or a related field
- Minimum of eight years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or legislative affairs
- At least four years of management experience
- Strong knowledge of public procurement processes and capital funding mechanisms
- Demonstrated experience working with state and/or local government entities
What We Do
MARTA was created to provide safe, convenient and reliable transit service for the Metro Atlanta region. MARTA is vital to the success of metro Atlanta's economy, the preservation of our environment and the quality of life in our region. According to a University of Georgia study, MARTA is responsible for about $2.6 billion in economic activity every year. Our Vision People taking people where they want to go today and tomorrow. Our Mission To advocate for and provide safe, multimodal transit services that advance prosperity, connectivity and equity for a more livable region. Our Priorities Everyday, we will do our part at MARTA to operate a transit system that: * Consistently provides excellence in customer service * Delivers the capital program with speed and efficiency * Strengthens the MARTA brand * Demonstrates fiscal responsibility
