Director, Intergovernmental Affairs & Partnership Engagement

National Association of Counties; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 150,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Association of Counties seeks a Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Partnership Engagement in Washington, D.C. This role requires a strong understanding of intergovernmental relations and public policy, focusing on building strategic partnerships. Responsibilities include managing relationships with government entities and cultivating partnerships with stakeholders.

Qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and proven relationship-building skills. A salary range of $150,000-$160,000 is offered based on experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent lived experience in public administration, political science, or a related field.
• Proven ability to build and sustain strategic relationships across government, nonprofit, and private sectors.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategies to enhance relationships with officials.
• Identify and cultivate partnerships to advance NACo’s initiatives.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align strategies with advocacy goals.
• Manage budgets and resources related to programs.

Skills

Strategic relationship building

Intergovernmental relations

Public policy

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public administration or political science

Job description

The Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Partnership Engagement is responsible for helping advance NACo’s mission, serving as a trusted Association representative of county government officials in our nation’s intergovernmental system. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with federal, state, tribal and local government entities, as well as with private‑sector partners, nonprofit organizations, and other key stakeholders.

This position requires a deep understanding of intergovernmental relations, public policy, and strategic collaboration. The position focuses on building meaningful intergovernmental and cross‑sector partnerships to support the priorities and practices of NACo and America’s counties.

Key Responsibilities

• Intergovernmental Relations
  • Develop, coordinate and execute ONE NACo strategies to enhance the Association’s relationships with federal, state, tribal and local officials
  • Represent NACo in high‑level discussions with county officials, intergovernmental officials and other stakeholders
  • Monitor and analyze intergovernmental trends and policy developments, providing strategic recommendations to the Association’s CEO and leadership.
• Partnership Development and Engagement
  • Identify and cultivate partnerships with national level associations, think tanks, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders to advance NACo’s initiatives
  • Partner with NACo teammates as a senior‑level liaison to strategic partners, ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and mutual benefit
  • Provide executive level support for the CEO with overall relationship building and strategic outreach.
• Strategic Advocacy and Communication
  • Collaborate with NACo executive leadership to align intergovernmental strategies with advocacy and thought leadership goals
  • Prepare and provide briefings, reports, and presentations to communicate NACo’s value, positions and partnership opportunities
  • Represent NACo at conferences, events, and other forums.
• Team Leadership and Collaboration
  • Advance the Association’s understanding, recognition and leadership in intergovernmental affairs and partnership engagement
  • Foster a collaborative environment across NACo departments to ensure alignment and maximize impact
  • Manage budgets and resources related to intergovernmental and partnership programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent lived experience in public administration, political science, or a related field. Master’s degree or equivalent level experience is preferred
• Proven ability to build and sustain strategic relationships across government, nonprofit, and private sectors
• Strong understanding of the functions and needs of counties and local governments
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience

Preferred Attributes

• Familiarity with federal legislative and regulatory processes
• Experience working with or within county governments or related partner organizations
• Strong network of contacts within government agencies and intergovernmental leaders
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment

Location and Travel

This position is based in Washington, D.C., with travel to conferences, meetings, and partner engagements.

Salary Range

$150,000-$160,000 commensurate with experience and available resources