State Government Affairs Manager

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Location: Raleigh, NC or Washington DC

State Government Affairs Manager

What this role is about?

The State Government Affairs Manager helps shape and advance JTI LIGGETT’s public affairs efforts at the state level, supporting the company’s mission and business priorities. In this role, you will develop and deliver state‑focused advocacy strategies, create impactful materials, and engage directly with state officials and key stakeholders. You will serve as a go‑to partner on state legislative and regulatory matters, working closely with colleagues across the Government Affairs team. The role also involves building and maintaining strong relationships with trade associations and external partners while monitoring important state‑level developments. You will regularly brief senior leadership and collaborate with the Corporate Affairs & Communications team to help the company navigate an evolving political and regulatory landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and engage on state legislative and regulatory developments, working directly with state officials on issues impacting the business.
• Represent and communicate company positions on key policy areas, including excise taxation, product standards, flavor regulation, enforcement, and related matters.
• Coordinate and oversee external consultants across multiple states to support advocacy priorities and initiatives.
• Develop, maintain, and update JTI LIGGETT’s advocacy toolkit, including plain‑language materials, fact sheets, and public communications.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with state associations, trade associations, and other key stakeholders, supporting ongoing engagement efforts.
• Manage internal and external communications on state issues, including legislative tracking, summaries, reports, and news digests.
• Partner closely with cross‑functional teams to ensure awareness of business impacts tied to state‑level legislative and regulatory activity.
• Contribute to Corporate Affairs & Communications outputs, including monthly regional reports and legislative updates, and support leadership with timely monitoring, alerts, and guidance.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• At least 5 years of experience in government affairs, public affairs, communications, public policy research, or a related role in either the public or private sector.
• Demonstrated experience working on government or public affairs–related initiatives.
• Strong understanding of legislative, regulatory, or public policy environments.
• Fluency in English, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally in a government or public affairs context.

What We Offer

Join a dynamic and inclusive work environment which supports your professional development and personal well-being.

Benefits include:

• Annual performance-based bonus to reward outstanding achievements.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan encouraging a sense of ownership and long-term commitment.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for employees and their families.
• Life insurance coverage to provide peace of mind.
• 401(K) plan with company matching contributions to support retirement planning.
• Generous paid time off and paid family leave up to 20 weeks, supporting work-life balance.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Education and tuition assistance programs to foster continuous learning and career growth.
• Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential counselling and support for employees and their family members.

Are you ready to join us? Build your success story at JTI. Apply now!

Next Steps:

After applying, if selected, please anticipate the following within 1-3 weeks of the job posting closure: Phone screening with Talent Advisor > Assessment tests > Interviews > Offer. Each step is eliminatory and may vary by role type.

At JTI, we strive to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. As an equal-opportunity employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you need any specific support, alternative formats, or have other access requirements, please let us know.