Tribal Ombudsman - Director of Tribal Engagement

The Director of Tribal Engagement supports the Secretary of the Commonwealth in advancing respectful and coordinated government-to-government relations with Virginia's federally and state-recognized tribal nations. The role provides policy expertise, strategic guidance, and operational support for consultation on environmental, cultural, and historical issues, while managing cross-agency coordination and maintaining subject matter expertise on tribal policy. This position serves as a liaison facilitating communication between Commonwealth agencies and tribal governments, and coordinates meetings, briefing materials, and consultation protocols.

• Demonstrated experience in government relations, preferably in federal, state, or tribal context
• Excellent writing, communication, and analytical skills
• Strong knowledge of state policies affecting Indigenous communities
• Proven experience working with tribal governments or Indigenous-focused organizations
• Ability to navigate sensitive intergovernmental issues with diplomacy and cultural awareness
• Experience with collaborative engagement processes including consultation or interagency coordination