Job Advertisement

Position Title: State Government Relations Director
Location: Helena
Country: United States
Deadline Date: No expiration date indicated, apply timely.

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The American Heart Association (AHA) is a leading organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Established in 1924, the AHA has grown to become a prominent force in health advocacy, with a mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The organization operates in all 50 states and has a workforce of over 3,000 employees, supported by millions of volunteers. The AHA is committed to Health Equity and aims to advance cardiovascular health for all individuals, regardless of their background. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workplace culture, ensuring that every employee feels valued and heard. As the AHA celebrates its centennial year, it continues to focus on innovative programs and initiatives that promote health and well-being across communities.

Job Overview:
The State Government Relations Director plays a crucial role in representing the American Heart Association at the state level, specifically in Montana and Wyoming. This position is responsible for generating awareness and support for the AHA's public policy agenda by engaging with state legislators and relevant agencies. The director will strategically coordinate efforts to advance the AHA's public policy priorities, working collaboratively with staff, volunteers, coalitions, and partner organizations. The role requires a proactive approach to advocacy, ensuring that the AHA's messaging is integrated into various programs and events. The director will also have access to extensive training and resources to support their success in this position, including the AHA's award-winning corporate university, Heart U.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The State Government Relations Director will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Meeting one-on-one with members of the state legislature, their staff, and other state government officials to gain support for the AHA's advocacy issues.
• Monitoring and engaging on state-level legislative and regulatory issues that concern the AHA, keeping volunteers and staff informed of emerging advocacy issues.
• Conducting policy research and developing support materials, recruiting spokespersons, and preparing testimony to advance the AHA's legislative agenda.
• Participating in coalition-building efforts and forming collaborative partnerships to leverage opportunities for advocacy.
• Recruiting members for and providing support to Volunteer state advocacy committees, collaborating to develop an annual legislative agenda.
• Providing strategic direction for grassroots efforts, including recruitment, retention, and mobilization for state lobby days and local meetings.
• Collaborating with communications staff on media advocacy efforts.
• Preparing required reporting information, including lobbying reports.
• Delivering advocacy presentations and training to volunteers and staff as needed. 1
• Attending relevant AHA meetings throughout the year, including national and affiliate staff training and state-level meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the State Government Relations Director position must possess the following qualifications:

• A Bachelor's Degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in legislative and regulatory lobbying, demonstrating success in this area.
• At least three (3) years of experience in building and managing issue advocacy coalitions.
• Three (3) years of experience in developing and implementing grassroots and media advocacy tactics.
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills, with a strong ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Proficiency in policy Analysis and Technical Writing related to legislative and regulatory matters.
• Strong Project Management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects under time constraints.
• Knowledge of Strategic Planning, budgeting, and work management principles.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's Degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may also be considered in lieu of a formal degree. Candidates should have a solid understanding of public policy and advocacy processes, as well as the ability to analyze and interpret legislative documents and regulations.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have a minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience in legislative and regulatory lobbying, with a proven track record of success. Experience in building and managing advocacy coalitions is essential, as is experience in grassroots and media advocacy tactics. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to manage multiple projects effectively and work under tight deadlines.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Additional language skills may be considered beneficial, particularly in regions with diverse populations or where multiple languages are spoken.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and offers a hybrid work model. The American Heart Association provides a competitive compensation package, including a base salary that is regularly reviewed to ensure competitiveness. Employees are rewarded for their performance through merit increases and incentive programs. The AHA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as a robust retirement program with employer matching. Employees also have access to professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance for further education. The AHA emphasizes work-life harmonization, providing a minimum of 16 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) for new employees, which increases with seniority, along with 12 paid holidays each year.