Illinois State Government Relations Manager

Duties & Responsibilities Government Affairs & Advocacy Monitor and analyze legislative, regulatory, and policy developments that may impact the organization's operations and strategic initiatives. Advocate for the company's interests on key legislative and regulatory issues at the state level. Engage with legislators, regulators, and agency officials to communicate the organization's policy positions and business priorities. Support the development and advancement of legislative and policy initiatives that benefit company operations. Relationship Management Develop and maintain strong relationships with state and local elected officials, regulatory agencies, and key government staff. Represent the organization in meetings, hearings, industry forums, and policy discussions. Build coalitions and collaborate with industry partners, trade associations, and advocacy groups to advance common policy objectives. Policy Strategy & Business Alignment Work with senior leadership to develop strategic responses to regulatory and legislative developments affecting the organization and its industry. Coordinate across internal departments to ensure alignment on public policy priorities and advocacy efforts. Identify emerging regulatory trends and policy risks in both existing and developing markets. Develop, manage, and track the budget for state-level government relations and political efforts, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to advance legislative and advocacy objectives. Regulatory & Industry Engagement Maintain a deep understanding of the regulatory environment affecting the company, including areas such as energy policy, carbon reduction initiatives, sustainability, and taxation. Engage with policymakers and regulators to shape policies that support long-term business viability. Grant & Funding Opportunities Identify government grant opportunities that support the organization's business objectives. Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to prepare and submit grant applications. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Government, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's degree preferred). Law experience preferred 5+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, public policy, or legislative affairs. Demonstrated experience working with state legislative bodies, regulatory agencies, or public officials. Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. Ability to analyze policy issues and translate complex regulatory matters into business implications. Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 50 pounds periodically While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work. Compensation & Benefits The wage for this position is between $50,000 - $500,000 annually, with potential adjustments based on skills, experience, and qualifications. Medical: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois HDHP / HSA Plan with employer contributions Traditional PPO Plan / FSA Plan Dental: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Vision-Voluntary: Mutual of Omaha / EyeMed Life and AD&D: Mutual of Omaha One-time annual salary to a maximum of $200,000 Premium 100% employer-paid Short Term Disability: Mutual of Omaha Provides 60% of earnings, to a maximum weekly benefit of $1,500 Premium 100% employer-paid Long Term Disability: Mutual of Omaha Provides 60% of earnings, to a maximum monthly benefit of $5,000 Premium 100% employer-paid 401(k) retirement savings plan: Fidelity 5% company match Paid Time Off: Based upon years of service Holiday Pay: 6 paid holidays