Manager – Legislative Affairs & Policy

Overview

Position is responsible for executing the Council’s public policy and intergovernmental strategy and works on behalf of the Council with local, state, and federal elected and appointed officials; neighborhood groups; and business and trade organizations. The position reports to the Chief Administrative Officer/Policy Director and provides strategic policy and legislative support to Council leadership.

The Manager - Legislative Affairs & Policy oversees the development, coordination, and implementation of the Council’s legislative and policy initiatives. The manager supervises the Legislative Liaisons and coordinates cross-departmental policy research, legislative analysis, and strategic advocacy. This position also evaluates the long-term policy and fiscal impacts of enacted legislation and develops frameworks for measuring legislative performance.

The Manager - Legislative Affairs & Policy analyzes, consolidates, and interprets data; prepares policy and fiscal reports; assists in the city-county budget process; and maintains a comprehensive understanding of state and federal policy trends affecting local governance. The role advises Council leadership on legislative drafting best practices and ensures strategic alignment between Council priorities and citywide initiatives. Strong written and verbal communication skills, professional integrity, and the ability to manage confidential information are essential.

Independent judgment is regularly utilized when there are no available policies or procedures. Errors in judgment may result in regulatory, fiscal, or operational challenges. This position carries out broad and complex assignments requiring comprehensive knowledge—or the ability to obtain such knowledge—of public policy, legislative processes, and intergovernmental affairs in order to interpret and apply policies and provide information that supports decision-making.

The City of Indianapolis Marion County is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.We value diversity in perspectives and experiences among colleagues and the residents of this city of whom we serve.

Position Responsibilities

• Manages the planning, development, and implementation of policies and objectives in alignment with the priorities and strategic direction established by the Council.
• Advises Council on legislative options, policy implications, and procedural considerations to support informed decision-making.
• Supervises the Legislative Liaisons and provides leadership and staff support for special projects, study commissions, and community outreach initiatives.
• Serves as a liaison between the Council and community stakeholders, including neighborhood associations, advocacy groups, and business or civic partners—facilitating engagement, transparency, and collaboration on key legislative initiatives.
• Coordinates with the Mayor’s Office and external agencies on strategic policy alignment, grant opportunities, and the implementation of state and federal mandates.
• Builds and maintains effective relationships with City and County departments, municipal corporations, and other governmental partners to efficiently exchange information and respond to inquiries.
• Monitors and tracks state and federal legislation that may impact local government policy, operations, or fiscal capacity, and provides timely updates to Council leadership.
• Conducts policy research, analyzes program data, and prepares concise policy briefs and recommendations to support Council decision-making on legislative and community initiatives.
• Collaborates with the General Counsel to prepare and review legislative documents and proposals for Council introduction, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and procedures.
• Assists the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Administrative Officer/Policy Director in the formulation, review, and adoption of the annual budgets for the Consolidated City of Indianapolis and the five municipal corporations under Council oversight.
• Collaborates with the CFO on fiscal analyses related to budget, bond, and economic development legislation, ensuring financial data is accurately represented in Council materials.
• Oversees the development of a framework for evaluating the fiscal, social, and administrative impacts of Council-enacted legislation to measure outcomes and inform future policymaking.
• Attends Council meetings, committee hearings, and relevant boards or commissions to monitor and report on the progress of policies, programs, and budget initiatives.
• Notifies Council staff of procedural considerations related to proposed legislation and coordinates with the General Counsel to ensure compliance.
• Maintains confidentiality, demonstrates sound judgment, and adapts to shifting priorities and deadlines, including attending evening and weekend meetings as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Chief Administrative Officer/Policy Director.
• This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities that management may deem necessary from time to time.

Qualifications

Working Conditions