Sr.Dir, Govt Relations

General Information

Job ID
ATR50432

Posting Job Title
Sr.Dir, Govt Relations

Locations
GA Atlanta Headquarters

Employment Type
Full Time

Date Posted
08-Apr-2025

Relocation Support
No

Description & Requirements

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE: SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers, and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

The opportunity:

The Sr Director, Government Relations will develop and implement Smurfit Westrock's government relations strategy, influence public policy, and build relationships with government officials. This role requires extensive knowledge of legislative processes, excellent communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. Leading the Government Relations team, this position requires managing direct reports and staff and serving as Executive Director of the Smurfit Westrock Political Action Committee (PAC), shaping its long-term strategy in line with company values and goals.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:

• Strategy Development: Formulate and implement comprehensive government relations strategies that align with the company's objectives and policy priorities.
• Advocacy: Advocate on behalf of the company to promote and protect its interests in legislative and regulatory matters. Coordinate efforts with external associations and lobby resources to ensure cost-effective advocacy and fully leverage membership resources.
• Relationship Building: Establish and maintain strong relationships with key government officials, policymakers, and regulatory bodies.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Monitor legislative and regulatory developments, provide analysis, and report on potential impacts to the organization. Promptly apprise internal stakeholders of emerging issues with the potential to impact operations.
• Coalition Building: Collaborate with industry groups, coalitions, and other external stakeholders to advance common policy goals. Position the company as a thought leader within the industry.
• Communication: Develop and deliver clear and effective communications, including briefing materials, position papers, and written guidance to internal stakeholders on policy matters.
• Compliance: Ensure the company's political activities comply with all relevant laws and regulations, including Federal Election Commission reporting requirements.
• Risk Management: Identify and manage legislative and regulatory issues that could impact the company's operations and reputation.
• Internal Collaboration: Partner with internal stakeholders to align government relations strategies with business objectives and initiatives.
• Leadership and People Development: Manage and develop the Government Relations team by offering feedback, guidance, and support to help the team achieve its goals. Identify strengths and enhance the team's capabilities.

What you need to succeed:

• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills
• Ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop strategic responses
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with government officials and

stakeholders

• Strong project management and organizational skills
• High level of integrity and professional ethics

Education and experience:

• Bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. A master's degree or Juris Doctor (JD) is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in government relations, public policy, or a related field with a track record of successful advocacy and relationship building.
• Seven (7) or more years of experience successfully leading and managing global and regional government relations teams.
• High level of experience setting global and regional government relations strategies

What we offer:

• Corporate culture based on loyalty, integrity, and respect.
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities.
• An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies, and potential.
• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety, and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

Smurfit Westrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. Smurfit Westrock does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.

Smurfit Westrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. Smurfit Westrock does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.