Director, External & Government Affairs

Director of External and Government Affairs

The Director of External & Government Affairs fulfils a critical role for strategically positioning GLAR as one of the most influential, leading and visible organizations in Louisville. This highly visible and critical role proactively identifies, builds and maintains key relationships for the benefit of the GLAR’s strategic priorities. Under the direction of the CEO, and in consultation with contracted lobbyists, provide legislative analysis, represent, fundraise and advocate for REALTOR members’ interests under GLAR’s jurisdiction.

This position also works closely with various external stakeholders, Government Affairs staff of Kentucky REALTORS and the National Association of REALTORS on state and federal legislative issues and political matters.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Advocacy

• Develop and implement a comprehensive government affairs strategy aligned with GLAR’s objectives.
• Monitor, track, and analyze legislative and regulatory issues at the local, state, and federal levels, with an emphasis on housing and real estate.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with elected officials, government agencies, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders.
• Prepare briefing materials, testimony, and reports for leadership, members, and external partners.
• Partner with GLAR’s contracted lobbyist and grassroots network to proactively lead advocacy efforts.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable lobbying laws, filings, and regulations.
• Serve as staff liaison to GLAR’s Legislative Management Team.

GLARPAC (Political Action Committee)

• Serve as staff liaison to the GLARPAC Board of Trustees.
• Develop and execute strategies to strengthen PAC operations, including budgeting, fundraising campaigns, and strategic disbursement of funds.
• Plan and manage PAC fundraising events in partnership with the Communications team.
• Ensure compliance with all state and federal election laws and reporting requirements.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with PAC members, donors, and political stakeholders.
• Oversee candidate interviews and recommendations for political contributions.

External Relations & Industry Partnerships

• Cultivate positive and productive relationships with community leaders, business organizations, Chambers of Commerce, advocacy partners and others.
• Represent GLAR at public events, forums, and community outreach initiatives to strengthen visibility and influence.
• Collaborate with the Communications team to promote GLAR’s advocacy priorities and manage external messaging.
• Manage GLAR’s Industry Partner Program, ensuring value, communication, and engagement for partners.
• GLAR’s primary point of contact with Kentucky REALTORS and the National Association of REALTORS on advocacy and legislative matters.
• Serve as staff liaison to External Outreach Advisory Group.

About You.

• At least 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in government affairs, public policy, lobbying, political campaigns, association management, or related work.
• Demonstrated track record of successful advocacy, coalition building, and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience engaging with elected officials, government agencies, or political organizations.
• Excellent communication skills with ability to prepare and deliver persuasive materials and presentations for diverse audiences
• Strong strategic thinking, political acumen, and policy analysis skills and understanding of the legislative and regulatory process at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Familiarity with housing, real estate, land use, or property rights issues, strongly preferred.
• Ability to manage compliance with lobbying laws, election laws, PAC regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Experience with political fundraising, PAC management, and/or grassroots mobilization.
• Flexibility to attend local, state or national events as needed.
• Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to build and maintain relationships with elected officials, business leaders, members, and stakeholders.
• Comfortability with working closely with members, volunteer leaders, internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, yet collaboratively, in a…