FUNCTION: 

To direct and coordinate the public policy program of the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) on national, state, and local legislative and regulatory issues.

AUTHORITY: 

To plan, organize and implement all legislative and regulatory issues within the boundaries of member-driven grassroots policy, budget, and guidance from the Board of Directors and Executive Vice President.

REPORTABILITY: 

The Public Policy Director reports to the Executive Vice President of the Montana Stockgrowers Association.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage the Montana Stockgrowers Association’s public policy program and develop legislative strategy based upon member-driven policy.
• Serve as the staff for the Montana Association of State Grazing Districts (MASGD) and the Montana Public Lands Council (MPLC).
• Collaborate with the Executive Vice President on strategies for representing MSGA, MASGD, MPLC, and the Montana CattleWomen’s interest at the Montana Legislature.
• Serve as a state and federal lobbyist on legislative and regulatory issues pertinent to agriculture, environment, natural resources, taxes and other issues related to livestock production.
• Develop and strengthen strong working relationships with elected officials, policy staff, and other stakeholders.
• Prepare regular updates on public policy to Montana Stockgrowers, Grazing Districts, and Public Lands Council members, board, staff and media.
• Coordinate effective programming, actions and initiatives to further Montana Stockgrowers Association’s policy development and implementation.
• Work closely with other stakeholder groups and coalitions in carrying out shared public policy goals.
• Facilitate the policy committee’s grassroots policy development process.
• Assist with the facilitation of the state Montana Agricultural Political Action (MAPA) Committee and governing board of directors.
• Contribute the organization’s membership strategy, value proposition, and business metrics.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated knowledge of the appropriate procedures for working with state and federal elected and appointed officials in the implementation of member policies.
• Ability to inspire confidence, create trust, and reflect the values of the Montana Stockgrowers Association.
• Clear and consistent verbal and written communications skills combined with effective interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Working knowledge of agriculture, natural resources, and livestock production is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in public policy or a related field or equivalent work experience.
• Ability to understand new issues quickly and make strategic decisions.
• Ability to work under pressure and plan workload effectively.
• Ability to travel and maintain a flexible schedule.

COMPENSATION:

Salary based on experience and job qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package is provided. This position qualifies for an annual bonus opportunity.

TO APPLY:

Resumes and cover letters will be accepted until the position is filled. The first round of application review will occur on February 1, 2023. Submit resume and cover letter to [email protected].

Duration: Permanent full-time position

Job Location: Montana Stockgrowers Association, Helena, MT