Hiring: Director, Government Affairs, State, Local & Education (SLED) Company: Palo Alto Networks Location: Washington, DC Job Posted Time: 2026-09-15 07:40:30 Employment Type: Contract / Remote Target Skills & Keywords : AI About the job Experience: •Domain Expertise: Proven track record in state, local, and education government affairs, with deep knowledge of policy issues surrounding cybersecurity and AI. •Network: Established relationships with state and local CIOs, CISOs, legislators, and key IT procurement officials. •Procurement Literacy: Sound understanding of legislative budget cycles and public sector acquisition processes. •Coalition Building: Demonstrated success leveraging trade associations and national organizations (e.g., NASCIO, NGA) to advance policy goals. •Communication Skills: Exceptional written, verbal, and executive presentation abilities. Required Skills: •Policy Strategy & Advocacy: Shape, track, and influence state and local legislation and regulations impacting cybersecurity, AI, and digital resilience. •Public Sector Business Enablement: Align government affairs efforts with sales and business development teams to navigate complex SLED procurement processes and unlock public sector opportunities. •External Relationship Management: Cultivate strong networks with key state/local cyber and IT-focused officials, decision-makers, and policymakers. •Trade & Association Leadership: Represent the company within relevant trade associations, coalitions, and national SLED organizations to amplify advocacy priorities. •Consultant Management: Directly oversee and direct a dynamic network of outside government relations consultants and contract lobbyists across key jurisdictions. •Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with internal go-to-market, product, legal, compliance, and executive leadership teams to align public policy initiatives with corporate goals. Compensation: •Flexible work environment (work from home / hybrid options) •The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus Interested candidates, please apply directly through the job posting on company's career page or try via AI auto apply on this platform. Don't miss this opportunity to join a forward-thinking team!