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Director Government Relations Jobs in Columbus, OH

... government relations regarding hotel operations (preferred) Required Skills * Ability to work in a fast-paced environment * Must be flexible to work varied schedules * Ability to delegate and direct ...

... relation to the function of the role, as well as equity to any other employees in the same or ... Experience working with government regulations and a thorough knowledge and understanding of ...

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Director Government Relations information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$53.8K

$107.2K

$148.2K

How much do director government relations jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director government relations in Columbus, OH is $107,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,100.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Government Relations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Government Relations, you need expertise in public policy, legislative processes, and strategic communications, usually supported by a relevant degree and significant experience in advocacy or government affairs. Familiarity with government databases, legislative tracking systems, and stakeholder management tools is typically required. Exceptional relationship-building, negotiation, and persuasive communication skills help someone excel in this role. These abilities are critical for effectively influencing policy, representing organizational interests, and building strong networks with key policymakers.

How does a Director of Government Relations typically collaborate with internal departments to align legislative strategies with organizational goals?

A Director of Government Relations works closely with various internal departments such as legal, communications, public affairs, and executive leadership to ensure that legislative strategies support the organization's objectives. This collaboration often involves regular interdepartmental meetings to discuss policy priorities, updates on legislative developments, and alignment of messaging. The director may also coordinate grassroots advocacy efforts and advise teams on regulatory compliance. Effective communication and cross-functional teamwork are critical to developing unified positions and responding proactively to policy changes.

What does a Director of Government Relations do?

A Director of Government Relations is responsible for managing an organization’s interactions with government agencies, policymakers, and regulatory bodies. They develop and implement strategies to influence public policy in favor of their organization, monitor legislative and regulatory developments, and advocate for the organization's interests. This role often involves building relationships with government officials, tracking relevant legislation, and communicating the organization's position on key issues. Directors of Government Relations also coordinate lobbying efforts and ensure compliance with government regulations.

What is the difference between Director Government Relations vs Government Affairs Manager?

AspectDirector Government RelationsGovernment Affairs Manager
CredentialsBachelor's degree; often advanced degrees or certifications in public policy or lawBachelor's degree; relevant experience in government or policy
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, high-level stakeholder engagement, policy advocacyPolicy analysis, lobbying, relationship management
Employer & Industry UsageCorporations, associations, government agenciesCorporations, nonprofits, industry groups
Search & Comparison IntentHigh-level government relations roles, strategic advocacyPolicy-focused roles, lobbying, stakeholder engagement

The main difference is that the Director Government Relations typically oversees strategic government engagement and policy advocacy at a senior level, while the Government Affairs Manager focuses more on policy analysis, lobbying, and relationship management. Both roles require similar credentials and are used in similar industries, but the director position involves higher-level strategic responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Relations jobs in Columbus, OH? The most popular types of Government Relations jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What job categories do people searching Director Government Relations jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Director Government Relations jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Director Government Relations jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Director Government Relations job openings:
Assistant Director, Government Relations

Assistant Director, Government Relations

STRS Ohio

Columbus, OH • On-site

$122.40K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

STRS Ohio, STRS
STRS Ohio is seeking an Assistant Director, Government Relations to join the Executive/Government Relations team.
Established in 1920 and serving Ohio's educators, STRS Ohio is one of the nation's largest retirement systems, serving nearly 550,000 active, inactive, and retired public-school teachers, and university faculty members, managing approximately $96.3 billion as of June 30, 2025, in assets and paying more than $7 billion in benefits annually.
STRS Ohio provides a competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package including on-site parking, educational assistance, subsidized medical insurance, fully paid dental and life insurance, vacation and sick leave, retirement benefits and on-site fitness center. At STRS Ohio, you can experience rewarding work in a professional, business casual work environment. We welcome, celebrate, and promote respect for everyone. We are continually seeking bright and talented individuals to join our team.
Compensation:
$122,403 - $153,004
Work Schedule:
8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday (Onsite)
General Summary:
Under the direction of the director, Government Relations, review proposed retirement legislation and advocate on behalf of State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio (STRS Ohio) with federal and state legislators, their committee members and staff. Act as liaison between Government Relations and all other departments of STRS Ohio.
Summary of Responsibilities:
  • Support the director, Government Relations in the development of legislative initiatives as approved by the STRS Ohio Retirement Board.
  • Build and maintain relationships with policymakers and government officials.
  • Manage legislator requests, research issues and follow-up as necessary.
  • Advocate in support of the STRS Ohio position on legislation, administrative rules or regulations. Contact and confer with members of Congress and the Ohio General Assembly and other public officeholders.

The above list of duties is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties performed by the persons so classified, nor is it intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct and control the work of associates under supervision.
Summary of Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree required. Degree in education, business administration, journalism, public relations, political science, government, law or communications preferred.
  • Four years' experience in a legislative, public affairs or advocacy environment required.
  • STRS Ohio or public pension environment experience preferred.
  • In-depth understanding of how laws, regulations and policies are developed and implemented required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Statement
State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio (STRS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin (ancestry), military status, disability, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, or caregiver status, in making employment-related decisions about an individual.
Visa/Sponsorship
To be offered a position with STRS Ohio, you must be either a U.S. citizen or possess proper legal authorization to work in the U.S. for the type of job you are seeking. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.
ADA Statement
STRS Ohio is committed to ensuring access, inclusion, and reasonable accommodations across all its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.
Posting Drug-Free Workplace Statement
The State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio (STRS Ohio) is a drug-free workplace. The use of recreational marijuana and non-medical cannabis is strictly prohibited.
Pre-Employment Drug Testing
All final candidates tentatively selected for employment will be required to undergo a urinalysis drug screening prior to appointment. This screening includes testing for illegal substances, including marijuana. A positive test result will disqualify the applicant from employment unless valid medical documentation is provided for legally prescribed medications or a physician's recommendation for medical marijuana.
Pre-Employment Background Investigation
The final candidate selected for this position will be subject to a criminal background check. STRS Ohio will conduct an individualized assessment of any prior criminal convictions before making a determination regarding employment eligibility.