Head – Government Relations & Public Relations

areSenior Manager / Head – Government Relations & Public Relations

Location: Hyderabad (with extensive travel across AP & Telangana)

Role Objective

To lead and manage Government Relations and Public Relations for Akshaya Patra Kitchens across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, ensuring strong engagement with Government stakeholders, smooth coordination with Education and District Administration, policy compliance, and enhancement of the Foundation’s public image and credibility.

Key Responsibilities

Government Relations & Liaison

Act as the primary interface with Government authorities at State, District, and Mandal levels.

Build and sustain effective relationships with:

MEOs (Mandal Education Officers)

DEOs (District Education Officers)

District Collectors

Education Department officials, Secretariat officers, and other bureaucrats.

Coordinate approvals, inspections, renewals, MoUs, and operational clearances related to the Mid-Day Meal (MDM/PM-POSHAN) program.

Support smooth onboarding of new schools, kitchen expansions, and operational scaling.

Handle Government visits to kitchens, audits, and review meetings.

Public Relations & Representation

Represent Akshaya Patra in official meetings, reviews, public forums, and Government events.

Coordinate Minister, MLA, IAS, and senior bureaucrat visits to kitchens and program sites.

Manage protocol, briefing notes, presentations, and follow-ups for high-level dignitary visits.

Support crisis communication and issue resolution involving Government or public stakeholders.

Policy, Compliance & Reporting

Track and interpret State and Central Government policies related to Mid-Day Meals / PM-POSHAN.

Ensure compliance with Government norms, reporting formats, and timelines.

Strategic & Leadership Responsibilities

• Develop a state-level Government Relations & PR strategy for AP & Telangana.
• Anticipate risks related to policy changes, funding, or administration and propose mitigation plans.
• Mentor and guide junior GR/PR executives (if applicable).
• Strengthen Akshaya Patra’s positioning as a trusted Government partner.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of Government systems, bureaucracy, and education administration.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• High level of diplomacy, discretion, and professionalism.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and high-pressure situations.
• Strong documentation, presentation, and reporting skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively across districts.

Qualifications & Experience

• Graduate / Post-Graduate (Public Administration, Political Science, Social Work, Management preferred).
• 10–15+ years of experience in:

Government Relations / Liaison

Public Affairs / PR

NGO / CSR / Large public-facing organizations are MUST

Prior experience working with District Administration, Education Department, or Government programs is mandatory.

Experience in the AP & Telangana Government ecosystem is highly preferred.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: ₹50,000.00 - ₹60,000.00 per month

Benefits:

• Cell phone reimbursement
• Food provided
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Provident Fund

Work Location: In person