What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Policy position at Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce?
Position Overview
The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking a Director of Policy to help shape the region’s future as we advance our bold vision to be recognized as a national hub for innovation and technology—from natural resources to advanced manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, and emerging industries.
The Director of Policy will lead the Chamber’s public policy and advocacy initiatives, representing the interests of the Duluth business community before local, state, and federal decision-makers. This role requires a strategic and articulate leader with the ability to analyze complex policy issues, develop actionable strategies, and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
The ideal candidate will combine strong political acumen, research and writing ability, and a passion for economic development and community progress. This position reports directly to the President of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce and plays a key role in advancing the Chamber’s mission to serve our members, strengthen our economy, and foster a vibrant community.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Mission:
Serve our members by providing business advocacy, collaborative leadership and member-driven initiatives.
Vision:
Serve as our area’s premier advocate for business by facilitating collaboration that engages leaders from business, government, education, labor and the greater community. Actively create innovative opportunities to advance our members.
Values:
- Advocacy & Voice
- Collaborative Leadership
- Member-Driven Service & Growth
- Innovation & Adaptability
- Equity & Community Prosperity
Key Responsibilities
Policy Development & Advocacy
- Develop, research, and articulate policy positions on local, state, and federal issues impacting Duluth’s business environment.
- Serve as the Chamber’s primary liaison to government officials, agencies, and partner organizations.
- Monitor legislative, regulatory, and public policy developments, providing timely analysis and recommendations to the President and Board.
- Coordinate the Chamber’s advocacy campaigns, testimony, and policy communications.
- Draft position papers, letters of support or opposition, and official statements aligned with the Chamber’s policy framework.
Strategic Engagement & Representation
- Represent the Chamber at public meetings, hearings, coalitions, and stakeholder events.
- Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, community leaders, businessowners, and advocacy partners.
- Support the Chamber’s Legislative Policy Committee, coordinating agendas, minutes, and follow-up actions.
- Assist in planning and executing Chamber policy events, including the annual Chamber Policy Breakfast, Candidate Forums, and Legislative Reception.
Research & Analysis
- Conduct policy and economic research that supports the Chamber’s advocacy and communications efforts.
- Collaborate with the President and other staff to produce white papers, data briefs, and thought leadership reports on key regional economic issues.
- Track and evaluate the potential impact of proposed legislation or regulations on Duluth-area businesses.
Communications & Public Affairs
- Draft policy-related content for newsletters, social media, and press releases in collaboration with the Director of Marketing and Communications.
- Help prepare talking points, op-eds, and presentations for the President and Board leaders.
- Support consistent and transparent communication of the Chamber’s advocacy positions to members and the public.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with the Duluth Chamber Foundation on initiatives related to workforce development, economic inclusion, and business research.
- Work closely with the Chamber’s events, membership, and marketing teams to ensure alignment between advocacy efforts and organizational goals.
Duties of All Staff
- Rights and Privacy: Maintain confidentiality and display respect for all board members, coworkers, association members, and stakeholders.
- Mission & Core Values: Exhibit professionalism, integrity, and ethical behavior while advancing the Chamber’s mission.
- Positive Work Environment: Foster teamwork, morale, and open communication. Address conflicts respectfully and directly.
- Cultural Competency & Inclusiveness: Support an inclusive workplace free from discrimination and harassment.
- Other Duties as Assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Communications, Business, Economics, or a related field.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience in public policy, government affairs, communications, economic development, or a related area.
- Demonstrated experience analyzing policy issues, managing stakeholder relationships, and developing advocacy strategies.
- Exceptional writing, public speaking, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to interpret and summarize complex legislative and regulatory information.
- Strong organizational and project management abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Public Policy, Political Leadership, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
- Experience in a membership-based or nonprofit organization, chamber of commerce, or economic development agency.
- Familiarity with the Duluth/Superior region and understanding of its economic and political landscape.
- Experience working directly with elected officials, policy committees, or boards of directors.
- Proven ability to balance diplomacy with advocacy and influence without partisanship.
Job Type & Compensation
- Full-time (40 hours per week)
- Compensation: Salary is negotiable and based on experience and qualifications.
- Benefits Offered: Health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce and the Duluth Area Chamber Foundation are Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employers. We do not discriminate in employment based on age, color, creed, culture, disability (physical or mental), ethnicity, familial status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, language, local Human Rights Commission activity, national origin, military service, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or public assistance status.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to:
Matt Baumgartner, President
Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce & Duluth Area Chamber Foundation
mbaumgartner@duluthchamber.com
The position will be posted for seven (7) business days and will remain open until filled.