State Director, State Affairs

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Montana.

📋 Description

• Propel public policy initiatives through direct lobbying efforts.

• Cultivate and strengthen relationships with agency officials, legislators, executives, and their teams.

• Oversee and guide policy reform at every stage of the process.

• Assemble and engage a diverse coalition of stakeholders to support the organization’s strategic objectives and public policy aims.

• Formulate a state-specific strategy in collaboration with program teams and internal stakeholders, and execute the plan in Montana.

• Advocate for public policy, defend against efforts to undermine animal protection laws, and address priority issues in Montana.

• Act as a spokesperson for the organization with government officials, key stakeholders, and the media.

• Pursue media opportunities to promote public policy objectives and enhance public awareness.

• Adhere to internal, local, and statewide lobbying regulations.

• Oversee the state’s budget management.

• Regularly update and manage social media platforms with information reflecting organizational priorities.

• Offer guidance, training, and support to local investigators and enforcement officials, including hands-on assistance when necessary.

• Occasionally collaborate with the Humane World Action Fund to conduct State PAC work or political activities.

• Execute other assigned duties and responsibilities as needed.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Government/Public Affairs, Communications/Media, or a related discipline, or equivalent work experience is required.

• At least five (5) years of progressive experience in animal protection/advocacy or related fields is necessary.

• Legislative/lobbying experience is highly preferred.

• Experience in volunteer management is favored.

• Background in grassroots advocacy and political campaigning is an advantage.

• Strong understanding of and interest in the animal welfare movement is preferred.

• Comprehensive knowledge of the legislative and political processes, especially at the state level.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.

• Capability to prioritize and juggle multiple projects simultaneously while remaining adaptable to changing workloads and assignments.

• Proficient in engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders across various political, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds; committed to organizational values around diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment with frequent deadlines; energetic, self-driven, and proactive.

• Outstanding organizational skills; adept at analyzing and addressing challenges in advancing legislative strategies and providing effective solutions.

• Strong interpersonal skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook); willing to learn new technological platforms as they are introduced by the organization.

• Detail-oriented with a commitment to excellence, evidenced by the delivery of high-quality and timely results.

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as an effective team member.

• Must reside within a one-hour commute from Helena, Montana.

• Willingness to travel extensively throughout Montana and occasionally out of state.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional development and growth.

• Supportive work environment that values diversity and inclusion.