DAVID R. SOFFER
Overland Park
Summary
With 18 years of experience in public administration and government affairs, this seasoned professional at the senior level demonstrates a strong ability to plan, organize, and direct overall organization strategies and public information activities. Building relationships with corporate and community leaders has been a key aspect of their success. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills allow for effective collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Driven to pursue advancement opportunities that enable the implementation of creative organizational strategies, particularly those requiring government and public engagement.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Government Affairs/Business Development
WANRack
06.2021 - Current
- Led lobbying efforts at Federal, State and Local levels, including 23 states and over 100 municipalities.
- Cultivated relationships with government officials and key stakeholders to enhance WANRack's brand presence.
- Led strategy and grant writing efforts to secure government funding, driving WANRack's network expansion across the United States which resulted in $25 million in grants.
- Collaborated with internal departments to ensure alignment of policy positions and messaging across all platforms.
- Exhibited skills in advocacy, negotiation and influence without authority and excelled in organization and prioritization.
- Influenced positive policy outcomes through persuasive presentations at legislative hearings and meetings.
Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs
Kansas Department of Commerce
01.2019 - 06.2021
- Held a senior position within the state's Economic Development agency.
- Led the confirmation team for Secretary David Toland in a contentious partisan environment.
- Crafted core messaging targeting legislators, to establish and maintain a positive image and enhance understanding of the Department's mission.
- Developed and advanced policy initiatives for the Department.
- Served as lead spokesperson for Department at all government hearings and functions.
- Exhibited skills in advocacy, negotiation and influence without authority and excelled in organization and prioritization.
Special Assistant to Governor Jeff Colyer
Kansas Office of the Governor
01.2018 - 12.2018
- Conducted research/analyzed data to assist the Governor with his preparation for speeches and policy decisions
- Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information, upholding a high level of trust within the administration.
- Spearheaded special projects for the Governor, achieving successful outcomes through strategic planning and execution.
- Drafted correspondence on behalf of the Governor for various stakeholders including legislators, constituents, and foreign dignitaries.
- Assisted in budget preparations for Governor's initiatives or special projects, ensuring appropriate allocation of resources to meet desired outcomes.
Director of Marketing, Research & Policy
Kansas Department of Commerce
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Led the rollout of Commerce's new website, four new commercials that were essential in the Department's rebranding campaign.
- Spearheaded lobbying efforts at all levels of government, advancing key policy priorities through targeted advocacy campaigns.
- Negotiated contracts with external partners to ensure efficient delivery of critical services while minimizing costs to taxpayers.
- Organized high-profile conferences and events to raise awareness about pressing public issues, generating momentum for positive change.
- Established performance metrics for monitoring progress towards desired outcomes, using data to drive continuous improvement efforts.
Regional Director
New York State Comptroller ["OSC"]
01.2010 - 01.2017
- Represented Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli at public functions, meetings, and events to communicate key messages.
- Collaborated with key Federal, State, and Local elected officials to identify local issues, craft ideas to help bring the Comptroller to their district
- Provided regular updates to senior management regarding progress on initiatives, enabling swift adjustments when necessary for optimal results.
Education
Master of Public Administration -
SUNY At Albany
Albany, NY05.2010
Skills
- Public Relations Expertise
- Government Relations Oversight
- Marketing Strategy Development
- Event Coordination Expertise
- Project Oversight
- Team Leadership
- Research and Policy Evaluation
- Effective Problem Solving
- Stakeholder Engagement
Accomplishments
- Over $35 million in government funding/grants
- Lead proponent of 70+ pieces of legislation across 23 states
- Built 23 state government affairs operation from ground up
- Built new website for Kansas Department of Commerce
- Initiated and managed successful Salesforce integration for State of Kansas
Personal Information
Title: DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
Awards
- Dean's List of Distinguished Students
- National Society for Collegiate Scholars
- 2021 Certificate of Appreciation Award from Governor Laura Kelly
Not For Profit Board Membership
- Vaad Hakashruth of Kansas City, 2017, Member of Board of Trustees since 2017/President of Board of Trustees since 2021
- Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, 2021, Member of Board of Trustees since 2021
- Jewish Community Relations Bureau of Kansas City, 2023, Member of Board of Trustees since 2023
Languages
English
Full Professional
Hebrew
Full Professional
Timeline
Director of Government Affairs/Business Development
WANRack
06.2021 - Current
Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs
Kansas Department of Commerce
01.2019 - 06.2021
Special Assistant to Governor Jeff Colyer
Kansas Office of the Governor
01.2018 - 12.2018
Director of Marketing, Research & Policy
Kansas Department of Commerce
01.2017 - 01.2018
Regional Director
New York State Comptroller ["OSC"]
01.2010 - 01.2017
Master of Public Administration -
SUNY At Albany
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