Legislative Director

ABOUT THE ROLE The Legislative Director serves as the primary advocate and liaison for the City of Alexandria with the Virginia General Assembly, the Governor’s administration, and federal policymakers. Reporting to a Deputy City Manager within the City Manager’s Office, this role is responsible for advancing the City’s legislative agenda at the state and federal levels, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities, and fostering collaborative relationships to support Alexandria’s policy and budgetary goals. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead the development, presentation, and execution of the City’s legislative agenda during General Assembly sessions. - Monitor and analyze state and federal legislation, budget proposals, and policy developments impacting the City. - Build and maintain strong working relationships with the General Assembly, Governor’s administration, congressional delegation, and legislative staff. - Manage the City’s federal lobbying program and coordinate advocacy for federal funding and grant opportunities. - Collaborate with City departments to align legislative priorities with operational needs. - Track legislation, identify risks and opportunities, and prepare clear briefings for City Council and leadership. - Advocate for state and federal funding to support City projects and initiatives. - Communicate legislative efforts to residents and stakeholders, and draft public statements and testimony. - Manage the legislative team and consultants, ensuring compliance with lobbying disclosure requirements. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Four-Year College Degree. - At least five years of experience in government at the Federal, State, or local level, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. - Significant experience in the legislative process, specifically working with the Virginia General Assembly and navigating Virginia’s state legislative process. - Some knowledge of or experience in the Federal legislative process. - Significant experience with written and verbal presentations. Preferred Qualifications: - Master's Degree or law degree. - Experience in multiple levels or areas of government (local, state, federal; executive and legislative). - Experience in State and Federal budget development. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Temporary relocation to Richmond, Virginia when the Virginia General Assembly is in session, along with weekly trips between Alexandria and Richmond, and frequent trips during the rest of the year (the City funds these relocation and travel expenses). - Primary work location is the City of Alexandria. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates must successfully complete pre-employment background checks, including but not limited to a criminal background check, as a condition of employment. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a complete application through the City of Alexandria's official employment portal prior to the closing date. - Refer to the Legislative Director Brochure for additional details on the role and application process. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Alexandria - Location: 421 King St., 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22314 - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Number: 2027-00501 - Department: City Manager's Office - Opening Date: 08/14/2026 - Closing Date: 9/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern - Bargaining Unit: N/A - Benefits: City covers 75-80% of Medical, Dental, and Vision; Retirement plans (City Supplemental, Virginia Retirement System, Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan); 13 days Administrative Leave; 13 paid holidays; 12 days Sick leave; 3 days Bereavement Leave per occurrence; $3,200 per fiscal year for Tuition Reimbursement and Professional Development; City-paid Long-Term Disability with buy-up options; Flexible Spending Accounts; up to $270 per month in Transit Benefits; access to on-site gyms near City Hall; onsite dental service twice per year; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); and various employee wellness and development programs.