Director, State Affairs (Central & Southern Region)

Position Overview: The Director, State Affairs plays a critical role in coordinating state affairs initiatives and managing state lobbying activities in the assigned region, Central and Southern US States, on behalf of the organization. This involves coordinating efforts among the organization's members, national, state, and local trade associations, as well as other industry groups to advance the organization’s legislative agenda. Reporting to the SVP, State Affairs and Packaging & Sustainability, this role will drive alignment and coordinate policy positions and lobbying activity as well as actively seek out and identify policy opportunities for the CPG industry. The Director also engages in broader policy issues, activities, and legal matters that cross state and federal linesCompany Overview: A leading trade association representing some of the most recognized and trusted consumer brands, this organization plays a vital role in shaping the policies and conversations that impact products people rely on every day. With a focus on advocacy, innovation, and collaboration, it brings together industry leaders to drive progress on issues like consumer safety, sustainability, and marketplace growth. Joining the team means contributing to work that directly influences the future of the brands and products that touch millions of lives.Key Areas of Responsibility:AdvocacyManage the organization’s state lobbying activities in assigned region by coordinating efforts among organization members, national, state and local trade associations and other industry groups to advance the organization's state legislative agenda.Establish, build, and manage relationships with key policy makers at the state and local levels. Engages in policy discussion, agency meetings, and legal matters that cross state and federal lines. Develop and execute strategies to align with the organization's pillars and on behalf of the CPG industry. Establish and manage coalitions and consultants consistent with our position in key areas.Coordination and Education Drive alignment and coordinate policy positions and lobbying activity of the organization, the organization's member companies, coalitions, and national, state and local trade associations while maintaining and building relationships.Develop strategies, build coalitions within a state or region; organize and produce oral and written communication with legislatures and regulatory agencies.Establish and maintain ongoing relationships with legislators, regulators, trade associations and member company in-state counsels in designated states.Provide timely reports to the organization’s State Affairs Committee on activities in designated states and work closely with member company representatives on key policy issues.Identify and implement education and outreach opportunities with elected and appointed leaders. Policy Development Actively seek out and identify policy opportunities for the CPG industry and advise members as to strategic opportunities while internally aligning and developing policy that drives outcomes in the organization’s issues pillars.Lead a policy development and implementation process through identified committees or work groups that advance member interests. Work cross functionally within the organization's other pillar areas to develop policy initiatives and drive regulatory outcomes.Advise organization member companies on policy positions they are considering and draft or edit policies on behalf of member companies, at their request. RequirementsExperience & Education:A minimum of a BA/BS degree is required. An advanced degree such as an MS is a plus. 6 years of experience required, with preference for candidates who have worked in the legislative branch or state government and possess lobbying experience.A track record of demonstrated results in government, association and/or political environments.Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to analyze legislation and clearly communicate impact and advocacy strategy to members.Experience in a trade association is desirable. Skills:Expert understanding of legislative and regulatory processes.Ability to be productive and drive results in the face of ambiguity.Superior interpersonal and written communication skills.Public speaking skills, including the executive presence to represent the association at industry forums and events are desirable.Strong data and analytical skills including the ability to present complex data and explain business impact in terms non-specialized audiences can understand.Team player who thrives in a high-energy, multitasking and collaborative work environment.Effortlessly adjust to changes in priorities, and balance short-term deliverables with long-term strategic goals while producing a high-caliber work product.Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook etc.)

Salary : $150,000 - $160,000