Head of State and Local Government Relations

Overview

Suffolk is a national enterprise that builds, innovates, and invests. We provide value across the entire project lifecycle through our core construction management services and complementary business lines in real estate investment, design, self-perform construction, and technology start-up investment (Suffolk Technologies). By integrating data, artificial intelligence, and advanced technology through our Seamless Platform, we connect design, construction, and operations to deliver smarter, more predictable results and redefine how America builds. 

Suffolk – America’s Contractor – is a national company with more than $8 billion in annual revenue, 3,000 employees, and 17 offices, including Boston (headquarters), New York City, Miami, West Palm Beach, Tampa, Estero, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Las Vegas, Herndon, U.S. Virgin Islands, and other key markets. Suffolk manages some of the most complex and transformative projects in the country, serving clients across healthcare, life sciences, education, gaming, aviation, transportation, government, mission critical, and commercial sectors. Suffolk is privately held and is led by founder, chairman and CEO John Fish. Suffolk is ranked #8 on ENR’s list of “Top CM-at-Risk Contractors.” For more information, visit www.suffolk.com and follow Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. 

At Suffolk, we believe that our total rewards program should offer you and your family the support you need when it matters most. That’s why we have created a program that provides employees with access to a wide variety of options that can be personalized to support you and your loved ones physically, emotionally, and financially. 

Benefits include, competitive salaries, auto allowances and gas cards for certain roles, access to market leading medical and emotional and mental health benefits, dental, and vision insurance plans, virtual care options for physical therapy and primary care, generous paid time off, 401k plan with employer match and access to expert financial resources, company paid and voluntary life insurance, tax deferred savings accounts, 10 backup daycare days each year, short- and long-term disability, commuter benefits and more.  For more information, click here. 

The Role:

Suffolk is seeking Head of State & Local Government Relations to lead the company’s engagement with elected and appointed officials across our key markets. This leader will play a critical role in advancing Suffolk’s strategic priorities by strengthening public sector relationships, influencing policy and procurement environments, and positioning the company for continued growth.

Serving as Suffolk’s primary liaison to state and local government leaders, this role partners closely with executive and regional leadership to enhance market access, mitigate political and regulatory risk, and elevate Suffolk’s brand as an industry leader in safety, innovation, and project delivery.

This individual will also lead external government relations partners and advise senior leadership on political engagement strategies, including oversight of the company’s Political Action Committee (PAC).

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute Suffolk’s state and local government relations strategy across priority markets, including California, Texas, Florida, Utah, Nevada, New York, and New England
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and key public sector stakeholders to support business development and operational success
• Identify and influence policy, regulatory, and procurement developments that impact Suffolk’s projects and growth opportunities
• Partner with regional leadership to align government relations efforts with business priorities, helping to unlock new opportunities and strengthen Suffolk’s competitive position
• Develop and manage strategic engagement plans that elevate Suffolk’s brand and reputation in key markets and sectors
• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on political, legislative, and regulatory dynamics
• Oversee and coordinate external consultants, lobbyists, and government relations partners to ensure alignment and impact
• Support crisis management and issues response related to public sector stakeholders, including reputational and political risk mitigation
• Provide guidance and oversight for Suffolk’s political engagement activities, including PAC strategy and compliance

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field, preferably within construction, infrastructure, real estate, or a highly regulated industry
• Proven track record of building and leveraging relationships with state and local government leaders across multiple regions
• Strong understanding of public sector procurement, policy development, and regulatory environments
• Demonstrated ability to influence outcomes and align external engagement strategies with business objectives
• Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and executive presence
• Experience managing consultants, external partners, or multi-market initiatives
• Knowledge of political compliance requirements, including PAC oversight
• Ability to operate both strategically and tactically in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
• Willingness to travel regularly to key Suffolk markets

Working Conditions

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time; talk or hear; perform fine motor, hand and finger skills in the use of a keyboard, telephone, or writing. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; and reach with arms and/or hands. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. The employee will spend their time in an office environment with a quiet to moderate noise level. Job site walking.

EEO Statement

Suffolk provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, citizenship, genetic information, disability, protected veteran, gender identity, age or any other status protected by law.  This policy applies to recruiting, hiring, transfers, promotions, terminations, compensation, benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment.  Suffolk will not tolerate any unlawful discrimination toward, or harassment of, applicants or employees by anyone at Suffolk, or anyone working on behalf of Suffolk.