Sarah Patterson

Professional Summary

Professional Overview
Sarah Patterson is an experienced manager of strategic partnerships and government affairs with a strong background in regional planning, policy development, and stakeholder engagement. With a focus on fostering collaborative relationships and driving impactful initiatives, she brings a nuanced understanding of the public sector and a proven track record of success.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Government Affairs at the City of Long Beach, Sarah is responsible for cultivating key partnerships with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector entities. In this role, she spearheads the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that address pressing community needs, while also advocating for the city's interests at the state and federal levels.

Career Progression
Prior to her current position, Sarah served as the Manager of Regional Services at the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), where she coordinated the delivery of various programs and services to local jurisdictions. Before that, she held the role of Regional Affairs Officer for Los Angeles County at SCAG, working closely with elected officials and community stakeholders to advance regional planning priorities.

Earlier in her career, Sarah gained valuable experience as a Field Representative for the California State Assembly and as a Communications Deputy for Council District 15 at the City of Los Angeles. She also had the opportunity to work in government affairs at the Port of Los Angeles, further expanding her expertise in the public sector.

Academic Background
Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles, where she graduated with honors.

Areas of Expertise

• Strategic partnership development

• Government affairs and policy advocacy

• Stakeholder engagement and community outreach

• Project management and program implementation

• Regional planning and service coordination

• Public-private collaboration and initiative alignment

Professional Impact
During her tenure at SCAG, Sarah played a pivotal role in the successful launch of the regional Active Transportation Program, securing over $50 million in funding to support the development of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure across the region. Additionally, she led the coordination of the organization's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the continued delivery of critical services to local jurisdictions.

In her current role at the City of Long Beach, Sarah has been instrumental in forging new partnerships with non-profit organizations and private sector entities, leveraging their expertise and resources to address pressing community challenges. Her efforts have resulted in the implementation of innovative programs that have had a tangible impact on the local community.

Conclusion
With her extensive experience in the public sector, deep understanding of regional dynamics, and proven ability to drive collaborative initiatives, Sarah Patterson is poised to continue making a meaningful impact in her role as the Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Government Affairs at the City of Long Beach. Her commitment to excellence and her passion for public service make her a valuable asset to the community.