State Government Relations Director

Job Advertisement

Position Title: State Government Relations Director
Location: Salt Lake City
Country: United States
Deadline Date: No specific deadline indicated, apply timely not to miss an opportunity.

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The American Heart Association (AHA) was founded in 1924 and has since made significant strides in reducing cardiovascular disease deaths by half. The organization is dedicated to addressing the most pressing health challenges and is committed to ensuring a healthier future for all. With a mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, the AHA operates across various states and engages in numerous initiatives to promote heart health and wellness. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce and workplace culture, reflecting its commitment to serving all communities effectively.

Job Overview:
The State Government Relations Director serves as the primary representative of the American Heart Association to the assigned state legislature and relevant state agencies. This role is crucial in generating awareness and support for the AHA’s public policy agenda. The director will strategically coordinate and oversee efforts to further the state public policy priorities of the AHA, working closely with staff, volunteers, coalitions, and partner organizations. The position requires a proactive approach to advocacy, integrating messaging into relevant AHA programs and events, and ensuring that the organization’s legislative agenda is effectively communicated and supported.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the State Government Relations Director include meeting with members of the state legislature and their staff to gain support for advocacy issues, monitoring state-level legislative and regulatory issues, and providing policy research and development of support materials. The director will also participate in coalition building efforts, recruit members for volunteer advocacy committees, and provide strategic direction for grassroots mobilization efforts. Additionally, the role involves collaborating with communications staff on media advocacy efforts, preparing required lobbying reports, and providing advocacy training opportunities to volunteers and staff. The director will attend relevant AHA meetings and contribute to the overall mission of the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, or a related field, or have equivalent work experience. A minimum of three years of experience in legislative and regulatory lobbying, as well as proven experience in building and managing issue advocacy coalitions, is required. Candidates should also have experience in developing and implementing grassroots and media advocacy tactics, along with exceptional oral and written communication skills. Strong policy analysis and technical writing skills are essential, as is the ability to manage multiple complex projects under time constraints. Knowledge of strategic planning, budgeting, and work management principles is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field such as Public Policy, Political Science, or Law. Equivalent work experience may also be considered in lieu of a formal degree. The emphasis is on having a solid foundation in public policy and advocacy-related education to effectively fulfill the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant experience in legislative and regulatory lobbying, with a proven track record of success. Candidates should have experience in building and managing advocacy coalitions, as well as developing and implementing grassroots and media advocacy strategies. This level of experience is crucial for effectively navigating the complexities of state-level advocacy and ensuring the AHA's public policy agenda is advanced.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, strong oral and written communication skills in English are essential. Additional language skills may be considered beneficial, particularly in diverse communities where the AHA operates, to enhance outreach and advocacy efforts.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with an expected salary range of $78,000 to $94,000, commensurate with experience. The AHA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a robust retirement program. Employees are entitled to a minimum of 16 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year, increasing with seniority, and 12 paid holidays annually. The organization also supports professional development through tuition assistance and access to its corporate university, Heart U. The AHA is committed to work-life harmonization and provides various resources to support employee well-being.