Strategic Policy & Legislative Affairs Lead

City of Indianapolis and Marion County; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Indianapolis and Marion County seeks a Manager of Legislative Affairs & Policy to execute public policy and intergovernmental strategy on behalf of the Council. The role supports leadership with legislative analysis, budget coordination, and cross‑department collaboration across local, state, and federal levels.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer/Policy Director, the manager will supervise Legislative Liaisons, coordinate research, and ensure alignment with citywide

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, Business Administration, or related field; 5+ years of relevant experience
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, lead teams, maintain relationships, and present information to support policymaking
• Experience leading executive-level legislative initiatives including drafting and statutory interpretation
• Strong knowledge of local, state, and federal legislative processes and intergovernmental affairs
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and accounting/management software/databases

Responsibilities

• Manage planning, development, and implementation of policies aligned with Council priorities
• Advise Council on legislative options, policy implications, and procedural considerations
• Supervise Legislative Liaisons and support special projects and community outreach
• Liaise with neighborhoods, advocacy groups, and partners to facilitate engagement and transparency
• Coordinate with Mayor’s Office and external agencies on policy alignment and mandates
• Monitor state/federal legislation impacting local government and report to leadership
• Prepare concise policy briefs and recommendations to support decision‑making
• Collaborate with General Counsel on drafting and reviewing legislative documents
• Assist CFO/CAO in budget formulation and adoption for City/County
• Develop framework to evaluate fiscal, social, and administrative impacts of legislation
• Attend Council meetings and report progress on policies and budget initiatives
• Maintain confidentiality and adapt to shifting priorities and deadlines

Skills

Policy analysis

Legislative drafting

Intergovernmental affairs

Leadership

Communication

Confidentiality

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, Business Administration, or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft 365

Accounting software/databases

Job description

The City of Indianapolis and Marion County seeks a Manager of Legislative Affairs & Policy to execute public policy and intergovernmental strategy on behalf of the Council. The role supports leadership with legislative analysis, budget coordination, and cross‑department collaboration across local, state, and federal levels.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer/Policy Director, the manager will supervise Legislative Liaisons, coordinate research, and ensure alignment with citywide