Director OF Government Affairs

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), the City's leading real estate trade association, is seeking a strategic, politically savvy, and highly motivated Director of New York City Legislative Affairs to join our External Relations & Advocacy team. This is a unique opportunity to play a leading role in shaping public policy on some of New York City's most important issues, including housing production, economic development, infrastructure, taxation, and the regulatory environment that impacts the city's growth and competitiveness. The Director will serve as REBNY's primary liaison to the New York City Council and other city policymakers, helping advance the organization's legislative and advocacy priorities through coalition building, strategic engagement, and policy leadership. This highly visible role offers direct access to REBNY's senior leadership team, Board members, and executives from New York City's leading real estate companies, providing a unique opportunity to influence policy strategy and engage with decision-makers at the highest levels of government, business, and civic leadership. Key Responsibilities Drive Legislative Strategy Lead REBNY's engagement with the New York City Council, Mayor's Office, and City agencies to advance the organization's policy priorities. Track, analyze, and evaluate City Council legislation, mayoral initiatives, regulatory proposals, and emerging policy developments. Develop and execute legislative strategies and advocacy campaigns that advance REBNY's agenda and support New York City's long-term growth. Build Relationships and Coalitions Cultivate and maintain productive relationships with elected officials, senior government staff, agency leaders, and key stakeholders. Partner with REBNY members, coalition partners, and external consultants to build support for legislative and policy initiatives. Represent REBNY at public events, industry meetings, political functions, and community forums. Advise and Communicate Prepare internal and external advocacy materials in close collaboration with REBNY's Public Policy team, including policy briefs, legislative updates, testimony, position papers, and strategic recommendations. Deliver timely analysis and updates to REBNY leadership and members regarding political, legislative, and policy developments. Engage with Industry Leadership Regularly interact with senior executives from New York City's leading real estate firms and REBNY's broad membership. Present policy updates, gather feedback, and help shape organizational positions on key legislative and regulatory issues. Serve as a trusted advisor to members navigating the city's evolving political and policy landscape. Qualifications The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment, builds relationships with ease, and has a passion for public policy and government affairs. Required Experience Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience. Minimum of five years of experience in government, public affairs, legislative affairs, government relations, public policy, political consulting, or advocacy. Significant experience working with or engaging New York City government, particularly the New York City Council and/or the Mayor's Office . Strong understanding of New York City's political, legislative, and policymaking processes. Preferred Experience Experience working on policy issues affecting real estate, housing, land use, economic development, infrastructure, taxation, labor, or related fields. Experience leading advocacy campaigns, coalition-building efforts, or legislative initiatives. Existing relationships within New York City government and the broader civic community. Skills and Attributes Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. Strong political judgment and strategic thinking abilities. Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities in a deadline-driven environment. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with elected officials, senior executives, members, and colleagues. Self-starter with a collaborative mindset and a commitment to achieving results. Benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, generous PTO policy including Summer Fridays, matching 401K, Life Insurance, Transit stipend, Tuition stipend, Citi Bike and Calm app memberships and more! #J-18808-Ljbffr