Overview
Director, Regional Government Affairs (South Bay / Silicon Valley)
Location: San Jose, CA
Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) | svlg.org
About SVLG
The Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) is the leading business association representing Silicon Valley's innovation economy. Founded by David Packard in 1977, SVLG advances policies and partnerships that strengthen innovation, economic competitiveness, sustainability, infrastructure, and inclusive growth. Our members include global technology companies, critical infrastructure providers, and high-growth startups working to shape a better future.
Position Summary
SVLG is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of South Bay Government Affairs to lead the organization's engagement with city, county, and regional government leaders throughout the South Bay — focused on communities such as San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Mountain View, Palo Alto and the surrounding region.
This role is responsible for advancing SVLG's local policy agenda in the South Bay, cultivating relationships with public officials, and delivering value to member companies through strategic advocacy and regional collaboration. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of local political dynamics and a passion for promoting solutions across housing, transportation, infrastructure, economic development, and sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead SVLG's South Bay government affairs strategy, with a focus on proactive engagement and long-term relationship building
- Serve as the primary liaison to elected officials, city managers, agency heads, and public stakeholders across South Bay jurisdictions
- Represent SVLG and its members in public meetings, regional coalitions, working groups, and community forums on issues including land use, permitting, infrastructure, housing, economic development, and clean energy
- Monitor, analyze, and respond to local policy developments impacting the innovation ecosystem and business climate
- Develop advocacy materials, public comment, and policy briefings that reflect SVLG's core priorities and the interests of member companies
- Design and lead localized roundtables and convenings that foster public-private dialogue and position SVLG as a trusted regional partner
- Collaborate across SVLG teams—including policy, communications, events, and membership—to amplify regional initiatives and ensure coordinated execution
- Advise SVLG leadership and member companies on South Bay-specific policy dynamics and engagement opportunities
Qualifications
- 6-8+ years of experience in local government relations, public affairs, or public policy, preferably with direct experience in the South Bay or broader Silicon Valley region
- Deep understanding of municipal governance and public-sector decision-making
- Existing relationships with public officials, agencies, or community leaders in South Bay cities is strongly preferred
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience representing organizations in public settings
- Strategic thinker with a collaborative, action-oriented approach
- Familiarity with SVLG's focus areas: housing, transportation, clean energy, infrastructure, innovation, and inclusive growth
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $135,000–$165,000, depending on experience
- Higher title and compensation may be offered in limited circumstances to exceptionally qualified candidates based upon experience, seniority, and organizational needs
- Full medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer contribution
- Unlimited vacation, generous paid holidays
- Flexible work environment and opportunities for professional development
To Apply
Please submit your resume, cover letter, two writing samples and references.
SVLG is committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and belonging both within our organization and across the region. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.
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