Attorney V (Director of Communications and Governmental Affairs)

Come join our team at the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) where you will experience work-life balance, great benefits, and an exciting career that supports the Agency’s mission to make South Carolina a safe place to work and live. Responsibilities

• You will serve as the Director of the Office of Communications and Governmental Affairs, providing leadership and strategic direction for the Agency’s communications, public affairs, and governmental affairs functions.
• You will serve as the primary legal counsel on public affairs matters and report directly to the Agency Director.
• You will provide legal advice and counsel to the Agency in drafting and proposing changes to regulations and direct and coordinate all activities related to the regulation promulgation process.
• You will provide strategic leadership and oversight for the Agency’s public affairs, communications, media relations, and public information services.
• You will direct and coordinate the planning, execution and deployment of all Agency communications.
• You will oversee the Agency’s compliance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), including providing legal advice and counsel to both routine and complex requests for information and development and implementing policies and procedures to comply with FOIA.
• You will direct and manage the Agency’s response to subpoenas received from third-party litigation, assist with drafting motions and memorandums, and provide legal advice and counsel to the Agency and staff with depositions, motions, and trials.
• You will serve as the Agency’s Ethics Officer, ensuring the compliance and implementation of ethical procedures, policies, and guidelines.

Minimum Qualifications

• A juris doctor degree or its equivalent from an accredited law school and experience as a practicing attorney.
• Member of the SC Bar.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience as a practicing attorney.
• Knowledge of South Carolina's legislative process with experience testifying at or attending state legislative committee meetings.
• At least 5 years’ experience in researching and analyzing legislation, drafting and analyzing regulations, analyzing and applying FOIA, and/or general experience in governmental affairs/public policy matters.
• Extensive knowledge of the functions, laws, rules and regulations of the agency.
• Considerable knowledge of the principles and methods of effective public relations.
• Ability to conduct complex analysis and interpretations and prepare comprehensive reports.
• Ability to plan, organize and supervise the work of subordinates.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with agency management, government officials and the general public.
• Ability to be persuasive and manage high levels of stress to meet critical deadlines at times. Computer and word processing skills.
• Ability to work independently and exercise a high level of discretion and diplomacy.

Other Requirements

• Position functions primarily in an office environment with extended periods of sitting and standing.
• Position works outside of the office with frequent local travel to and from the State House complex.
• Must have a valid driver's license and provide a 10-year MVR that complies with State and Agency Fleet guidelines.
• Occasional overnight travel.
• Frequent work outside of normal Agency business hours including early mornings, late afternoon/evening, and weekend work particularly during the legislative session.

Benefits Offered The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:

• Health, dental, vision, long term disability, and life insurance for employee, spouse, and children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs