About Williams Companies

Williams Companies is a leading energy infrastructure company dedicated to making clean energy happen. We operate extensive natural gas pipelines, processing plants, and storage facilities across North America, powering homes, businesses, and industries with reliable, low-emission energy solutions. Headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Williams is committed to sustainability, innovation, and community impact. Our mission drives us to connect the dots of energy demand and supply while fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace where employees thrive. Join us to do work that means something and contribute to a cleaner energy future.

Position Summary

The Director of Government Affairs at Williams Companies, based in Washington, District of Columbia, is a pivotal leadership role overseeing state-level advocacy efforts. This position leads a team of professionals to build relationships with governmental entities, policymakers, and regulators across two dozen states. You'll represent Williams' positions on critical legislative and regulatory issues, recommend strategic business solutions, and drive positive outcomes that align with our organizational objectives. Ideal for seasoned experts in energy policy, this role offers 50% travel, high visibility, and the chance to shape the future of the natural gas industry.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Team Management

• Lead Williams’ state government affairs team by setting strategic vision and tactical implementation of legislative, regulatory, and policy initiatives.
• Manage a team of professionals, including workforce planning, career development, budgets, and directing outside consultants.

Policy Advocacy and Lobbying

• Monitor, engage, and advance state legislation and policy through strategic lobbying and coalition building across 24 states.
• Formulate policy positions, strategies, tactics, and advocacy materials for state and regional levels.
• Serve as a registered lobbyist in key states and regions.

Stakeholder Partnerships

• Partner with project managers, legal teams, permitting experts, and commercial teammates to support business objectives.
• Engage government officials, industry peers, and influencers to educate on our industry and foster strategic partnerships.
• Develop community partnership plans with membership associations, organizations, and business partners.

Representation and Reporting

• Represent the company on committees, trade associations, at events, and advocacy groups.
• Develop reports and collateral materials with communications and public affairs teams.
• Coordinate grassroots and grasstops efforts for campaigns.

Other duties as assigned, with a focus on energy sector challenges like regulatory permitting and market dynamics.

Required Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Required: Bachelor’s degree and minimum 10 years in government affairs, partner relations, or similar.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or Juris Doctorate and 15+ years of relevant experience.

Key Skills and Other Requirements

• Proven experience managing teams, budgets, and consultants.
• Detailed understanding of legislative processes, regulatory/permitting requirements, and energy industry (oil & natural gas).
• Prior grassroots/grasstops coordination and campaign experience.
• Proficiency in corporate communications tools.
• Willingness to travel approximately 50% of the time.

Candidates must embody Williams' Core Values and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Why Join Us

At Williams, this isn’t just a job—it’s a career-defining opportunity to explore your passion with coworkers who become friends and mentors who push you to excel. We offer competitive compensation estimated at $220,000 - $320,000 annually (based on experience, location, and market data for similar roles in DC), plus a robust Total Rewards package including health benefits, financial wellness programs, and more to protect your physical, emotional, and financial health.

Work on meaningful projects in clean energy, enjoy a diverse and inclusive culture, and grow professionally in a company proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or genetic information. Bring your energy to ours and help make clean energy happen. Apply now for Director of Government Affairs in Washington, DC!