U.S. State and Local Government Relations Director Washington DC

Overview

U.S. Director of State and Local Government Relations – Washington, DC;
Home-based in the US (ET preferred). Bentley Systems is seeking a strategic and experienced U.S. Director of State and Local Government Relations to lead engagement with state and local government entities across the United States. This role will develop and execute a comprehensive government relations strategy to promote Bentley’s infrastructure software solutions, foster partnerships, and influence public policy to support Bentley’s mission of advancing a digital transformation in state and local transportation and infrastructure policy.

The Director will serve as the primary liaison between Bentley Systems and state/local governments, trade associations, and other key stakeholders. The position reports to the Senior Director of U.S. Government Relations. This is a full-time role expected to work 40 hours per week, home-based in the US.

• Government Relations Strategy:
  Develop and implement a strategic plan for state and local governments engagement.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Build and maintain strong relationships with state and local government officials, agencies, and industry associations to advocate for policies and initiatives that align with Bentley’s business objectives.
• Policy Advocacy:
  Monitor and analyze state and local legislation, regulations, and policies impacting infrastructure, engineering, and technology sectors. Advocate for policies that support the adoption of Bentley’s solutions.
• Business Development Support:
  Collaborate with Bentley’s sales and marketing teams to identify and pursue opportunities with state and local government agencies, ensuring alignment with their infrastructure needs and procurement processes.
• Strategic Partnerships:
  Identify and foster partnerships with public sector organizations, industry groups, and other stakeholders to enhance Bentley’s visibility and influence in the state and local government market.
• Compliance and Procurement:
  Provide guidance on navigating state and local government procurement processes, ensuring compliance with regulations and maximizing opportunities for Bentley’s solutions to be adopted.
• Internal
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with Bentley’s leadership, product development, and legal teams to align government relations efforts with corporate strategy and product offerings.
• Event Representation:
  Represent Bentley Systems at industry conferences, public hearings, and government-related events to promote the company’s mission and solutions.
• Reporting and Insights:
  Provide regular updates to senior leadership on government relations activities, policy developments, and market opportunities, offering actionable insights to guide strategic decisions.
• Travel:
  Willingness to travel up to 15% to engage with government stakeholders and attend industry events.

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, a related field, or equivalent training and experience; advanced degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in the public sector, government relations, public affairs, or a related role, with a focus on state and local government engagement.
• Proven track record of building relationships with government officials, agencies, and industry stakeholders.
• Deep understanding of state and local government procurement processes, infrastructure funding mechanisms, and regulatory environments.
• Strong knowledge of infrastructure, engineering, or technology sectors; familiarity with software solutions or digital twins is a plus.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze policy trends and align them with business objectives.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Experience working with or within state/local government agencies or infrastructure-related industries.
• Established network of contacts within state and local government or relevant trade associations.

• A great Team and culture – please see our colleague video.
• An…