Director of Government Affairs & Advocacy

Austin, TX, Deadline to apply: November 19, 2026 The Texas Society of Architects (TxA) is seeking an experienced and collaborative Director of Government Affairs & Advocacy to lead the organization’s legislative, regulatory, and grassroots advocacy efforts. This position plays a key role in advancing policies that support the architecture profession, protect public health, safety, and welfare, and promote the value of architects in shaping Texas communities. The Director develops and implements TxA’s advocacy agenda, represents the organization before state policymakers and regulatory agencies, and builds relationships with elected officials, industry partners, and members across Texas. Working closely with volunteer leadership and a collaborative staff team, the Director also oversees the organization’s political action committee, supports member engagement in advocacy, and helps strengthen the profession’s voice in public policy. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and effective communicator with a strong understanding of Texas government, the legislative process, and political affairs. This individual will be comfortable navigating complex policy issues, building relationships across diverse constituencies, and translating legislative and regulatory developments into meaningful information and opportunities for member involvement. Job Responsibilities Includes: GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS & PUBLIC POLICY

Lead the development and implementation of TxA’s legislative and regulatory agenda in collaboration with organizational leadership and the Government Affairs Steering Committee. Monitor, analyze, and respond to legislation, regulatory proposals, and public policy developments affecting architects, professional licensure, and the built environment. Develop and maintain productive relationships with legislators, legislative staff, state agencies, regulatory boards, and other policymakers. Represent TxA before legislative committees, regulatory bodies, and stakeholder groups through testimony, policy discussions, and advocacy initiatives. Research policy issues, develop position statements, and coordinate the preparation of legislative proposals, amendments, testimony, and other advocacy materials. Identify emerging policy challenges and opportunities, recommending proactive strategies that advance the profession’s interests and TxA’s organizational priorities. Build and maintain partnerships with allied professional organizations, industry stakeholders, and other groups on shared policy priorities.

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT & GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY

Strengthen TxA’s grassroots advocacy program by creating opportunities for members to engage with elected officials and participate in the legislative and regulatory process. Serve as the primary staff liaison to the Government Affairs Steering Committee, supporting member-driven policy development and advocacy initiatives. Work with local AIA components to build advocacy capacity, support local policy engagement, and strengthen connections between members and state leadership. Collaborate with communications staff to develop timely legislative updates, advocacy alerts, educational resources, and messaging that communicates the profession’s priorities and impact. Plan and coordinate advocacy events and initiatives, including TxA’s biennial Architects Day at the Capitol. Represent TxA at member meetings, conferences, and industry events, providing updates and presentations on legislative issues and advocacy priorities.

POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE

Oversee the strategic activities of the Texas Society of Architects Committee (TAC), TxA’s state political action committee. Develop and implement fundraising and member engagement strategies to support the PAC’s long-term growth and effectiveness. Monitor state elections and political developments, providing analysis and recommendations to PAC leadership. Ensure compliance with applicable campaign finance laws, reporting requirements, and organizational policies.

PROGRAM LEADERSHIP & COLLABORATION

Work closely with TxA leadership, staff, volunteer committees, and external advocacy partners to advance the organization’s strategic priorities. Supervise and support government affairs staff and coordinate the work of external advocacy consultants as appropriate. Support organizational initiatives and special projects as needed.

BENEFITS

Medical, dental and vision insurance 100% covered 401(k) matching 100% up to 5% Life insurance Short-term and long-term disability insurance Paid vacation and sick leave, plus annual holidays Professional development opportunities Required Skills and Qualities:

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, government, communications, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience will be considered. Minimum 5 years of professional experience in government affairs, legislative policy, advocacy, association management, or a related field. Strong knowledge of Texas state government, the legislative process, and regulatory affairs; experience working with the Texas Legislature strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to develop advocacy strategies, analyze complex policy issues, and communicate effectively with policymakers and diverse audiences. Experience building relationships with elected officials, government agencies, professional organizations, and volunteer leadership. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to prepare policy materials, deliver presentations, and represent an organization in public settings. Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and collaborate across teams. Experience with political action committees, campaign finance, or grassroots advocacy preferred. Familiarity with architecture, professional licensing, construction, or built environment policy issues is a plus but not required. Ability to work extended hours during legislative sessions and attend occasional evening events and meetings. Position is based in Austin, TX, and is primarily in-office with hybrid flexibility to accommodate legislative sessions, occasional evening events, and meetings. Position will have some statewide and national travel, as needed.

Apply Please submit cover letter and resume to jobs@texasarchitects.org for consideration by November 19, 2026, or until the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed as they come in by Sharna Pascolo, CAE, Interim EVP/CEO. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may begin immediately. Applications will be accepted through November 19, 2026, or until the position is filled, whichever occurs first. Early applications are encouraged. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.