Job Advertisement

Position Title: State Government Relations Director
Location: Portland, Remote
Country: United States
Deadline Date: No specific deadline indicated, apply timely.

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The American Heart Association (AHA) is a leading organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, with a mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Established over a century ago, the AHA has grown to become a trusted leader in cardiovascular and brain health, operating in numerous countries and employing thousands of individuals. The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that its workforce reflects the communities it serves. The AHA is also focused on professional development and employee well-being, offering various resources and support to its employees.

Job Overview:
The State Government Relations Director plays a crucial role in representing the American Heart Association in the state legislatures of Rhode Island and Maine. This position is home-based, allowing flexibility in work location, but requires occasional travel to engage with stakeholders in both states. The director will be responsible for advancing the AHA's public policy agenda by strategically coordinating efforts to generate awareness and support for health-related policies. This includes working closely with local officials, coalitions, and volunteers to build advocacy efforts that align with the AHA's mission. The director will also be tasked with integrating advocacy messaging into the AHA's programs and events, ensuring that the organization's goals are effectively communicated and supported at all levels of government.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the State Government Relations Director include strategically coordinating and leading public policy campaigns, meeting with state legislators and government officials to garner support for advocacy issues, and monitoring legislative and regulatory developments that impact the AHA. The director will provide policy research, develop support materials, and prepare testimony to advance the legislative agenda. Additionally, the role involves coalition building, recruiting members for advocacy committees, and providing strategic direction for grassroots mobilization efforts. The director will collaborate with communications staff to develop media advocacy strategies and will be responsible for preparing required lobbying reports and providing training to volunteers and staff. Participation in various meetings and training sessions throughout the year is also expected.

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, building advocacy coalitions, and implementing grassroots and media advocacy tactics is required. Strong policy Analysis and Technical Writing skills are essential, along with the ability to manage multiple projects under time constraints. Excellent oral and written communication skills are necessary, and candidates must be willing to travel overnight approximately 25% of the time.

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 understanding of public policy and advocacy processes, as well as the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have at least three years of experience in roles that involve legislative and regulatory lobbying, as well as experience in building and managing advocacy coalitions. Experience in developing and implementing advocacy tactics, both grassroots and media-focused, is crucial. Candidates should also have a proven track record of successfully managing multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Languages:
While the job posting 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.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and offers a competitive salary range of $79,000 to $99,000, commensurate with experience. The AHA provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a robust retirement program with employer matching. Employees are also entitled to Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at a minimum of 16 days per year, increasing with seniority, along with 12 paid holidays. The AHA supports professional development through tuition assistance and access to its corporate university, HeartU. The organization is committed to work-life harmonization and offers various resources to support employee well-being.