Director of Government Affairs

The Director of Government Affairs serves as a leader of the Chamber’s legislative affairs, political operations, and grassroots advocacy efforts, as well as a key team member for other advocacy functions such as policy development, events, special projects, and strategic partnerships. This person will also manage the HobNob intern and potentially other entry-level positions and assist in managing external vendor and contracted services support which likely include contract lobbyists, writing/comms support, and/or political strategist/fundraising vendor.

Principal Accountabilities

• Ability to successfully manage relationships with core constituencies and leadership groups ranging from the Chamber’s boards, policy councils, and general membership to elected officials, civic organizations, and interest groups.
• Skilled in consensus finding & building, and in receiving input from several sources – that are often differing and competing interests – to implement toward most feasible policy solutions.
• Breadth of knowledge on public policy issues including but not limited to; tax & fiscal policy, transportation, infrastructure, health, education, workforce, criminal justice, environment, and economic development.
• Experienced in electoral politics, but ardently non-partisan in demeanor and public statement.
• Deep understanding of campaign finance, PAC management, electoral data, and polling.
• Successful fundraiser and ability to create and sell shared/added value to membership and external PAC contributors.
• Ability to effectively present in government testimony, media, and public-facing situations.
• Knack to distill complex public policy issues and explain their implications to staff, stakeholders, and members on a routine basis.
• Well adept in cultivating and leveraging volunteer leadership for common goals.
• Proud proponent of the Indy Region and strong history of local civic engagement and impact.
• Proficient in third-party/contracted services e.g., Salesforce, HannahNet, VoterVoice, IN.gov
• Familiar with relevant public policy and political history of the state and region to replicate what has been successful and avoid past barriers and pitfalls.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Public Affairs, Business, Political Science, or related program. Masters or Graduate Degree preferred. 5-7+ years experience in similar roles.

Preferred Competencies

• Strong organizational skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to build and maintain successful relationships
• Strong presentation skills
• Knowledge of public policy and local/state political dynamics & history

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an office environment or other business type setting. Work is sometimes conducted before, during, and after traditional business hours 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

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