Manager-State Government Affairs

Overview

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting‑edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?

TDS Telecom is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to join our External Affairs team as Manager – State Government Affairs
. In this highly visible role, you will oversee regulatory, legislative, corporate, and industry relations for TDS Telecom’s Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier (ILEC) and Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (CLEC) operations at the state level. Your work will support our voice, data, mobile, and video services across multiple markets.

This position has the ability to work remotely. TDS may show preference to candidates in any of the Northwest states that TDS operates in for occasional travel. (Montana, Idaho, Washington).

• Build and maintain effective relationships with state utility commissions, industry organizations, and external counsel to promote TDS Telecom’s policy positions; assume leadership roles in assigned state associations.
• Lead and monitor all docket activities and other regulatory proceedings affecting TDS Telecom’s ILEC and CLEC companies, in support of the provision of voice, data, mobile, and video services in their assigned states. Serve as subject matter expert on local and statewide franchise activities, authorizations, and compliance requirements.
• Act as the primary liaison between state commissions, industry organizations, and internal teams to resolve escalated wholesale and retail issues—such as intercarrier disputes, call termination, broadband availability and speed, billing, and 911, unresolved at the operational level.
• Represent TDS Telecom in assigned states leading communications with local elected officials, assisting with resolving local issues and attending state and community level meetings and functions, as necessary. Examples include attending video franchise meetings, state and county broadband development meetings, community events, etc. Work with public relations team in promoting TDS Telecom and its product and services.
• Monitor and participate in state legislative activities for TDS Telecom’s ILEC and CLEC companies, in support of the provision of voice, data, mobile and video services in their assigned states. Provide expert testimony on behalf of TDS Telecom or industry associations before legislative bodies as needed.
• Participate in policy development that would benefit the business at the state and local levels.
• Monitor and stay informed on industry issues (global).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) OR 4+ years professional work experience.
• 5+ years regulatory experience and/or telecommunications leadership experience.

Other Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MBA, JD, CPA, or CMA).
• Expertise in public policy influence and regulatory, legislative, and industry environments.
• Understanding of evolving industry technologies and issues, including but not limited to Voice over Internet Protocol, Fiber to the Home/Fiber to the Node (FTTH/FTTN), cable technologies, etc.
• Strong communication, analytical, and negotiation skills.
• Independent, strategic thinker with collaborative approach and can‑do attitude.
• Ability and willingness to travel.

Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role. Experience and skills come in many forms, and they may not always match exactly what’s listed on paper, but they can still lead to success.

If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!

We believe in taking care of our team, which is why we offer comprehensive benefits to support your health, financial well‑being, and overall happiness. Join…