Public Affairs Director

Dir Public Affairs - Illinois & Metra

Union Pacific

Chicago, IL

The Director Public Affairs develops and implements Union Pacific's strategy and policy for state and local government legislative affairs, community relations, public partnerships and philanthropic programs in the State of Illinois, Chicago Metropolitan Region and Metra Commuter Service Territory. This position is the primary interface between Union Pacific and government entities, elected and appointed officials and community interests. The Director Public Affairs manages Union Pacific obligations under the Metra Purchase of Service Agreement and may also manage local media relations and communication, working in close alignment with Corporate Communications. The Director Public Affairs for Illinois and Metra is a direct report to the Assistant Vice President Public Affairs for the Northern Region at Union Pacific. The position will be staffed in Chicago, Illinois and will require travel throughout the state, with occasional overnight travel required. The Director Public Affairs often attends evening meetings and weekend events. An essential requirement for consideration is five years of work experience in a corporate or government public/government affairs role in the Greater Chicago and/or Springfield area.

Develop and implement legislative and community affairs strategies through political engagement process with state and local officials, including executive branch government officials and staff in the Governor's office, City of Chicago and Cook County. Direct legislative advocacy and key messaging with state executive branch representatives, including the Governor's office, Legislature and state agencies. Enhance and protect corporate reputation and brand through effective coalition building including community, governmental and philanthropic outreach. Engage city and county officials in key communities along Union Pacific lines through frequent visits and contacts. Proactively monitor and resolve community issues and concerns regarding Union Pacific freight and commuter operations and associated community impacts. Lead business interests through proactive and strategic outreach to local, state and federal elected and appointed officials, including development of state and local public/private partnership opportunities. Build awareness and understanding of Union Pacific's benefits and impacts at the community level through public presentations, direct participation in community organizations and identification of philanthropic opportunities to maximize Union Pacific's reputation and build community goodwill. Proactively engage region field offices for Federal elected and appointed officials.

A Bachelor of Arts degree or other Bachelor level degree in Public Relations, Public Administration, Communication, Government Affairs, Political Science, Business, or closely aligned field. 5 year(s) experience in Corporate Relations , or relevant experience in corporate or government public affairs, demonstrating effective political relationship networks in Chicago and the State of Illinois.