Policy Analyst

We’re hiring! The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is looking for a Policy Analyst to join our Public Affairs team.

Our purpose is simple: to help businesses thrive and communities prosper across the Springfield region. This role is at the center of the Chamber’s advocacy efforts — researching and analyzing public policy issues, monitoring legislative and governmental activity, developing clear and timely policy communications, and supporting programs that connect our members with the issues shaping our region.

If you’re a strong communicator and researcher who is interested in public policy, government and making an impact in the Springfield region, we’d love to connect.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume Graysen Cockerham, Administrative Coordinator at graysen@springfieldchamber.com. The Chamber offers competitive salaries based on experience, with excellent benefits and opportunities for professional development.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

POSITION: Policy Analyst 

REPORTS TO: Public Affairs Manager

ORGANIZATION & POSITION SUMMARY:

At the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, our core purpose is to help businesses thrive and communities prosper. We’re a purpose-driven, dedicated team that works alongside business leaders, elected officials, civic partners and more than 1,500 member organizations to advance economic prosperity throughout Southwest Missouri.

The Policy Analyst supports the Chamber’s public affairs, advocacy and civic engagement initiatives through policy research and analysis, legislative monitoring, strategic communications, program coordination and stakeholder engagement. The position serves as a key resource on local, state and ballot-related policy issues and helps translate complex issues into clear, actionable information for Chamber leadership, members and volunteer leaders. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Public Policy & Government Affairs

• Research and analyze local, state and ballot-related public policy issues affecting Chamber priorities.
• Monitor legislative activity, governmental meetings and emerging policy developments. 
• Prepare policy briefs, issue summaries, legislative updates, testimony and other materials that support the Chamber’s advocacy and policy decision-making. 
• Track Chamber-supported legislation and assist with advocacy initiatives, legislative days, voter education and candidate engagement efforts. 

Programs & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as staff liaison for assigned Chamber committees, task forces and stakeholder groups. 
• Coordinate and support public affairs programs, policy forums, speaker series and civic engagement initiatives. 
• Build and maintain productive relationships with Chamber members, volunteer leaders, elected officials, government staff and community partners. 
• Support the Chamber’s annual Community Leadership Visit and other special public affairs initiatives. 

Strategic Communications

• Lead development of the Chamber’s advocacy communications, including the Advocacy in Action newsletter and other policy updates. 
• Draft articles, presentations, talking points, scripts and educational materials for internal and external audiences. 
• Translate complex legislative and policy issues into clear, concise communications for business and community leaders. 

CRITERIA/SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Public Administration, Government, Communications or a closely related field. 
• 1–3 years of experience in public policy, legislative, governmental or regulatory research and analysis. 
• Strong research, analytical and written communication skills, with the ability to make complex policy issues understandable to a variety of audiences. 
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. 
• Professional interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with business leaders, elected officials, volunteers and community stakeholders. 
• Initiative, sound judgment, attention to detail and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. 
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet organizational driving requirements for business travel. 

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Exempt