Director, Public Affairs

Full-time position, Oklahoma City

Saxum is seeking a Director, Public Affairs to oversee assigned accounts, primarily in the public affairs and issue-based sectors, often managing other team members. This position will serve as a client manager, leading full client teams and running the day-to-day direction of public affairs client work, including integrated marketing communication strategies and client relationships. The ideal individual will have strong relationships and deep experience working within the public affairs sector including but not limited to key business leaders, political influencers, agency offices, and elected officials. The role will focus on clients aiming to influence policy issues. Key responsibilities include:

• Develop and execute comprehensive public affairs strategies for clients, integrating government relations, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications
• Provide strategic counsel to clients on navigating political and policy landscapes, leveraging insights and relationships to drive desired outcomes
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including elected officials, government agencies, industry associations and community leaders
• Manage and lead cross-functional teams in the development and execution of advocacy campaigns, grassroots initiatives and coalition-building efforts
• Monitor, analyze and educate internal team on relevant policy developments, political trends and media coverage to identify opportunities and risks for clients
• Deliver innovative strategies that drive results for clients, leveraging internal team expertise including digital, creative and technology/data
• Establish and continually measure KPIs to demonstrate the impact of our work, reporting on results to clients and internal stakeholders
• Provide crisis management and issues management strategy and execution for clients, developing rapid responses and managing reputational risks
• Mentor and develop a team, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration
• Contribute to the growth of Saxum's public affairs practice, driving business development activities by securing new work with existing clients, identifying new opportunities and being a thought leader within the public affairs landscape
• Ensure all public affairs activities are conducted in compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards, maintaining the highest level of integrity and professionalism
  
  

Requirements

The ideal candidate for the Director of Public Affairs position at Saxum should possess a minimum of 7-10 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, or a related field, along with a proven track record of developing and executing successful public affairs strategies and campaigns. They must have a deep understanding of the legislative process, regulatory environment, and political landscape, as well as excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to craft compelling messages and narratives. Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously.

The candidate should demonstrate exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills, as well as strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. They must be adaptable, flexible, and resilient in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with a collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively across internal teams and external partners. A strong ethical compass and commitment to integrity and professionalism are critical.

The ideal candidate should possess a curiosity and continuous learning mindset, staying current on industry trends and best practices, and a passion for public affairs. A bachelor's degree in a related field is required.

Preferred Skills And Experience

• Experience in policy areas including health care and public health, education, and/or criminal energy
• Prior agency experience
• Experience developing and implementing strategies for both B2B and B2C clients
• Federal or state capitol or campaign communications experience
  
  

About Saxum

Saxum is a full-service, marketing and strategic communications agency, driven by purpose and guided by a passion for our clients, our team, and the communities we serve.

Our values are BOLD:

• Brave - We speak up, stand up and act when others stand still
• Original - We champion new ideas and embrace unique perspectives
• Lively - We love our work and celebrate our community
• Driven - We move with a constant sense of urgency
  
  

We respect and celebrate the unique attributes, characteristics and perspectives that make all of us who we are. We draw our strength from our collective experiences, fostering a culture of belonging and innovation.

Saxum offers professional and personal benefits, including health, dental and short-term disability insurance, a generous PTO plan, IRA retirement plan, and other benefits.