Deputy General Manager – Government & Public Affairs

Westlands Water District; Fresno (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlands Water District is seeking a Deputy General Manager for Government & Public Affairs to lead the district’s government relations, legislative advocacy, and public affairs functions. The role reports to the General Manager and shapes policy, regulatory, and outreach efforts at the local, state, and federal levels.

The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of California water policy and agricultural water management, with a track record in building relationships with legislators, regulatory

Qualifications

• Experience in government relations and water policy.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to translate policy into actionable guidance.

Responsibilities

• Advise Board and leadership on legislative matters.
• Represent the District with legislators and agencies.
• Lead external affairs strategy and coalition-building.

Job description

Westlands Water District is seeking a Deputy General Manager – Government & Public Affairs. The Deputy General Manager of Government & Public Affairs serves as a key member of the executive leadership team, providing strategic direction for the District’s government relations, legislative advocacy, public affairs, communications, stakeholder engagement, and external relations functions. Reporting to the General Manager, this executive leader advances the District’s policy, regulatory, and public affairs objectives at the local, state, and federal levels while strengthening relationships with elected officials, regulatory agencies, industry partners, stakeholders, and the public. The Deputy General Manager serves as a principal advisor on legislative, regulatory, and communications matters, ensuring the District’s external affairs activities align with Board priorities, organizational goals, water supply objectives, and long‑term strategic initiatives.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned government affairs and water policy executive with deep knowledge of California water policy, agricultural water management, and the legislative and regulatory issues impacting Central Valley agriculture. This strategic leader will build and maintain strong relationships with legislators, regulatory agencies, agricultural stakeholders, and partner organizations while effectively advancing the District’s priorities through advocacy and coalition‑building. Serving as a trusted advisor to the Board and executive leadership, the successful candidate will translate complex policy matters into clear, actionable guidance and represent the District with credibility and professionalism. The role requires exceptional communication skills, political acumen, sound judgment, and a results‑oriented approach to advancing the District’s long‑term mission and objectives.