Director of Government Relations and Workforce Position Available In Kennebec, Maine

Director of Government Relations and Workforce Maine Health Care Association Augusta, ME 04330 • Hybrid work

MAINE HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATION

Director of Government Relations and Workforce

JOB SUMMARY

Maine Health Care Association is a state-wide non-profit representing over 200 nursing homes, assisted living, and residential care providers. MHCA is hiring a Director of Government Relations and Workforce to lead the association’s lobbying efforts and external relations efforts including workforce development initiatives. The Director reports directly to the President & CEO and represents MHCA to its members, governmental bodies, educational partners, other organizations, the business community, the media, and the public.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

In collaboration with the President & CEO, identify and prioritize emerging policy issues and establish public policy positions on issues impacting providers in long term care. Develop and manage strategy for advancing the association’s legislative agenda and strengthen relationships with elected officials and government agencies designed to increase awareness and support of Maine long term care providers. Prepare written and oral testimony, reports, comments and policy statements on policy, rules and regulatory matters that affect long term care. As a registered lobbyist, work closely with President & CEO and MHCA contract lobbyists throughout the year to develop and implement strategies to meet MHCA legislative goals. Includes bill monitoring, communicating with legislators and the executive branch, and manages call-to-action talking points for legislative priorities. Monitor, advocate, lobby, testify for/ against legislation and regulations that have the potential to impact all facets of the long term care industry. Assist with local grassroots lobbying campaigns, engage members in communicating with policymakers, help members coordinate facility visits with legislators. Attend political fundraisers; prepares and presents information on legislative topics at forums and events; and assists with Political Action Committee (PAC) activities. Serve as lead staff to the MHCA Legislative Committee and the Workforce Committee, solicit input as needed, and keep them abreast of policy changes. Keep MHCA Board of Directors appraised of legislative issues relevant to MHCA membership. Participate in collaborative coalitions and create new alliances based on relevant issues in common. Cultivate and maintain ongoing relationships with external partners, including trade organizations, coalitions, state agencies, the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, and other industry representatives. Assist President & CEO with MHCA’s participation in administrative rulemaking proceedings under the Maine Administrative Procedures Act (MAPA) and work collaboratively with contract lobbyists and outside legal counsel on rulemaking and regulatory matters. Develop a working understanding of the current legal, regulatory, and financial environment to anticipate how changes will impact on long term care providers. Use MHCA’s communication vehicles including website, weekly e-newsletter, advocacy action alerts, and social media channels to communicate with and engage members about government affairs and public policy advocacy matters. Work collaboratively with other association staff to plan and implement marketing and communication strategies for the association overall as well as special events including Remember ME and the Excellence in Long Term Care Awards programs. Oversee the association’s work force initiatives and conducts outreach to other statewide partners. Assist with writing and/or administration of grant funding related to workforce programs and training. Fosters collaborative relationships to cultivate work force development opportunities, identifies and assists members with recruitment and retention strategies for direct care workers, promotes educational programs, and serves as a resource for members. Strengthens awareness of the association’s mission and vision, maintains its position asthe voice of the long term care community in the health care field and the public.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

At least three years of professional experience in government relations, regulatory affairs, or related function. Bachelor’s degree in political science, public affairs, communications, or related field from an accredited institution required. J.D. or other related professional degree preferred. Relevant experience may substitute for the degree requirement. Experience in public policy advocacy in state legislature settings is a plus. Non-profit or trade association experience is also helpful. Demonstrated skill with Microsoft Office, Adobe software, or other design programs such as Canva.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND CHARACTERISTICS

The successful candidate will possess the following skills: Critical thinking Excellent written, verbal, and online communication skills Legislative advocacy and ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with policymakers and their staff High ethical standards Strong people skills, enthusiastic attitude, and ability to embrace new technologies Ability to work effectively with the CEO, co-workers, Board of Directors, and members Time management including the ability to determine priorities among competing demands, work effectively under tight deadlines, and manage projects independently Familiarity with work force issues in the long-term care community is a plus

POSITION TYPE

This is a full time, exempt position. This description is not comprehensive. The successful applicant will perform other duties as assigned.

LOCATION

Work location may be at the MHCA office or at the State Capitol (both are located in Augusta, Maine) with one day per week on a remote basis dependent upon the needs of the association and the legislature’s schedule. Some in-state and out-of-state travel is required. Working hours may vary and some evening and occasional weekend work is required.

BENEIFTS INCLUDE

Health, vision, and dental insurance Generous paid time off including sick time, vacation, holidays, and personal time off Professional development assistance 401K with generous employer match of up to 5%

SALARY RANGE

From $100,000 per year. MHCA will offer a competitive annual salary depending on experience.

To APPLY:

Submit a letter of interest and qualifications for the position with a resume to careeers@mehca.org. Applications will be accepted until June 30. More information about Maine Health Care Association can be found at www.mehca.org.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$100,000.00 – $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Family leave Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance

Schedule:

Evenings as needed Monday to Friday Ability to

Commute:

Augusta, ME 04330 (Required)

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Augusta, ME 04330