Chief of Government Relations and External Affairs

L.A. Care Health Plan•Sacramento, CA

About The Position

The Chief of Government Relations and External Affairs provides strategic leadership for all aspects of L.A. Care's engagement with government entities, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and the public. This position is based in Sacramento, CA, and directs the organization's advocacy agenda across local, state, and federal levels in an increasingly complex and politically sensitive environment. The Chief develops and executes integrated government relations and public affairs strategies that advance L.A. Care's mission, protect its regulatory standing, and shape the legislative and policy landscape affecting government-sponsored health programs. This role leads crisis communications and public affairs responses to emergent issues, manages contract lobbyists and external advocacy resources, and serves as a senior spokesperson and representative before government bodies. This is a senior leadership position with full management responsibility for staff and external resources, including direct oversight of the hiring, performance evaluation, and strategic direction of contract lobbyists, consultants, and department personnel.

Requirements

At least 10 years of progressive experience in government relations, legislative affairs, public affairs, or policy advocacy, with demonstrated success influencing outcomes in complex political environments.
At least 10 years in positions with significant supervisory and managerial responsibility, including management of professional staff and external contractors.
Demonstrated experience in legislative and regulatory monitoring, policy analysis, and the development of formal advocacy strategies at state and/or federal levels.
Proven track record in crisis communications and issues management on behalf of a regulated or publicly accountable organization.
Experience managing contract lobbyists or external government affairs consultants, including performance oversight and compliance management.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex legislative, regulatory, and technical content for diverse audiences, from board members to frontline staff to elected officials.
Expert-level understanding of government processes, regulatory frameworks, and legislative procedures at local, state, and federal levels.
Strong public speaking and testimony skills for representing the organization at hearings, coalition meetings, press events, and government proceedings.
Advanced analytical capability to evaluate legislation, regulations, and policy proposals and assess their financial, operational, and reputational implications for L.A. Care.
Skilled in negotiation, coalition management, and conflict resolution in politically charged environments.
High ethical standards and sound judgment in managing sensitive governmental relationships and confidential organizational information.
Capacity to operate effectively under pressure, adapt to rapidly shifting political conditions, and manage multiple high-priority initiatives concurrently.
Proficiency in lobbying compliance, disclosure requirements, and related regulatory obligations.
Bachelor's Degree in Public Policy or Related Field
In lieu of degree, equivalent education and/or experience may be considered.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with and reporting to boards of directors or governors and senior executive leadership teams.
Experience in the California legislative and regulatory environment; established relationships with state officials, legislative staff, and agency leadership.
Experience in issues management involving California state agencies such as DHCS, DMHC, or CDPH, or federal agencies including CMS.
In-depth knowledge of Medi-Cal, Medicare, or other government-sponsored health programs, including the relevant regulatory and legislative frameworks.
In-depth knowledge of the structure and operations of California state government and the federal legislative and regulatory process as it applies to Medicaid and managed care.
Familiarity with digital advocacy platforms, legislative tracking tools, and media monitoring systems.
Master's Degree in Communications or Related Field