Director of Government and Community Relations

Location: Salem Hospital, 720 Winter Street SE, Salem, Oregon 97301
Department: Government & Community Relations
Position Type: Full Time, 40 hours/week, Exempt, On-Site
Schedule: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday

Your role with us

The Director of Government and Community Relations serves as a key ambassador for Salem Health, shaping how the organization engages with policymakers, community leaders, and advocacy groups. This highly visible leadership role requires strategic vision, political acumen, and a passion for community health. The director acts as the primary liaison between Salem Health and local, state, and federal government entities, influencing public policy to advance healthcare initiatives and protect nonprofit status. They build coalitions and partnerships that strengthen Salem Health’s presence and reputation in the region, lead efforts to identify community needs and translate them into actionable programs that improve health outcomes, and represent Salem Health at legislative hearings, community forums, and association meetings to ensure the organization’s voice is heard on critical healthcare issues. This position is ideal for a collaborative leader who thrives in complex environments, enjoys relationship-building, and is motivated by the opportunity to make a tangible impact on public health and community well-being.

What we're looking for

• Strategic thinker with proven experience in government affairs and community relations.
• Collaborative leader who can build trust and influence across diverse stakeholders.
• Deep understanding of legislative processes and Oregon healthcare policy.
• Skilled communicator who can represent Salem Health effectively in public forums.
• Relationship-builder who thrives on creating partnerships that drive community health.
• Results-oriented professional with the ability to manage budgets and lead teams.
• Above average emotional intelligence with an ability to remain objective, setting aside personal politics and speaking/acting solely on behalf of Salem Health.
• A candidate who demonstrates integrity, adaptability, and commitment to Salem Health’s mission.

What you'll do

• Develop and execute a comprehensive government affairs strategy aligned with Salem Health’s mission and goals.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory activity at local, state, and federal levels, and advise leadership on potential impacts.
• Advocate for Salem Health’s interests by influencing policy decisions and legislative outcomes.
• Serve as the primary liaison with elected officials, government agencies, and healthcare associations.
• Represent Salem Health at legislative hearings, community forums, and industry events.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community organizations, nonprofits, and local businesses.
• Lead community needs assessments and develop programs that address identified priorities.
• Partner with Marketing and Community Outreach to ensure consistent messaging and brand representation.
• Oversee government and community relations budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance.
• Manage and mentor a team including a Government Affairs Specialist and Community Relations Liaison.
• Provide regular updates and strategic recommendations to the Executive Leadership Committee and Board committees.

Required qualifications

• Master's degree.
• Five years of progressively responsible experience in government and community relations.

Additional information

The strongest candidates will demonstrate:

• A proven track record of successful lobbying and knowledge of the Oregon State Legislature.
• Familiarity with healthcare funding and Oregon-specific initiatives.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws impacting healthcare and nonprofit status.

Why Salem Health?

Salem Health is a Top Workplace in Oregon, known for fostering a supportive culture where your contributions truly matter. As an award-winning, independent health care system, we serve our region through Salem Hospital, multiple community clinics and West Valley Hospital, ensuring broad access to high-quality care.

We believe in empowering our teams. Through Lean principles, staff help drive innovation and solve real problems. We also invest in your growth with professional development, tuition assistance, and clear career pathways. At Salem Health, you’ll find more than a job, you’ll find purpose, connection, and room to thrive.

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status or condition protected by law.

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact my.recruiter@salemhealth.org.