Critical Competencies for Government Affairs Managers: Insights From a Delphi Study

Abstract

Technology firms increasingly operate where public and private sectors intersect, heightening the importance of government affairs professionals who navigate complex regulations and relationships. This study uses a three-phase Delphi method, drawing on a final panel of 25 expert panelists from leading technology companies, to identify essential knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) for senior government affairs managers. High-consensus KSAs include Stakeholder Management, Ethics and Integrity, Political Acumen, and Networking and Diplomacy, underscoring the strategic nature of these roles. The resulting framework can guide professional development, recruitment, and training. It also highlights ethical responsibilities, emphasizing trust-building with regulators and society. Future work could explore how these KSAs vary by region or organizational context. Overall, the study offers a practical resource to support effective public-private collaboration and addresses a growing demand for more structured competency models in government relations.