Political Director

Position Summary

The South Carolina REALTORS® (SCR) is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Political Director to support and advance the organization’s government affairs and political advocacy initiatives. This position is responsible for implementing SCR’s political strategies, supporting REALTOR® advocacy efforts, and managing key political programs including the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC).

The Political Director serves as a key liaison between SCR, its local REALTOR® associations, elected officials, and strategic partners to ensure effective representation of REALTOR® interests at the local, state, and federal levels.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The duties listed below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. 

• Provide professional staff support to the SCR Legislative Group, RPAC, and SCR Candidate Screening Committee.
• Coordinate and support committee meetings, including scheduling, preparation of agendas and materials, meeting notices, minutes, correspondence, and recordkeeping.
• Assist in the development and implementation of advocacy strategies that advance SCR’s public policy priorities.
• Represent SCR at meetings of local, state, and federal government bodies and relevant organizations when issues may impact REALTORS®, the real estate industry, or quality of life in South Carolina.
• Serve as a liaison between SCR and its 15 local REALTOR® associations, providing guidance and support on political and advocacy initiatives.
• Assist local associations in securing REALTOR® Party Grants and promoting candidate screening, grassroots advocacy, and political engagement.
• Maintain productive relationships with elected officials, government staff, trade associations, and allied organizations.
• Collaborate with the SCR Communications Department to develop and disseminate political and advocacy communications to SCR members.
• Conduct research and assist in the development of issue summaries, policy position papers, and advocacy materials related to political, legislative, economic, and regulatory issues.
• Plan, organize, and implement RPAC fundraising campaigns and political events, including the SCR Capitol Conference and SCR-hosted events at the NAR REALTOR® Legislative Meetings in Washington, D.C.
• Provide administrative support and research for the SCR Candidate Screening Committee, including monitoring and researching statewide elections.
• Manage and process RPAC disbursements and oversee RPAC independent expenditures in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
• Promote statewide RPAC engagement and support local association fundraising efforts as needed.
• Coordinate grassroots advocacy initiatives, legislative dinners, and political events with state agencies and legislative staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support SCR’s advocacy mission.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, communications, business, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in government affairs, political advocacy, public policy, association management, or a related field.
• Working knowledge of the legislative and political process, preferably in South Carolina.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively with volunteers and staff.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and standard office technology.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with a trade or professional association.
• Familiarity with the real estate industry or REALTOR® organizations.
• Experience with political fundraising, PAC administration, or compliance.
• Knowledge of state and federal election laws and reporting requirements.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• This position operates in a professional office environment with regular use of computers, phones, and office equipment.
• Occasional evening and weekend work is required.
• Travel within South Carolina and occasional out-of-state travel is required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

• South Carolina REALTORS® is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.