POSITION TITLE: Director of Government AffairsREPORTS TO: Chief Executive OfficerBASIC FUNCTION:The Government Affairs Director is responsible for developing and leading the organization's legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts at the local, state, and federal levels. This individual will build and maintain relationships with policymakers, advocacy, and trade organizations to represent Farm Bureau's interests in government settings, and work to influence agricultural policy in line with the Farm Bureau's mission. The role requires a deep understanding of agriculture-related issues, public policy, and government relations strategies.RESPONISIBILITES:Director of Government AffairsGeneral Duties
- Know and understand in detail New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau policy positions and be familiar with the American Farm Bureau policy book.
- Assist field staff and county boards with development and implementation of policy for the state and national policy books.
- Maintain cooperative relationships with personnel of Farm Bureau affiliated companies.
- Furnish policy information to staff, State Board of Directors, and county Farm Bureaus.
- Provide support for coordination of state meetings that fall under the preview of government affairs or public policy.
- Perform additional duties as may be assigned or necessary to achieve the objectives of the organization
- Assist county Farm Bureaus in their objectives.
- To build and maintain membership and develop Farm Bureau leadership
- To implement programs and projects authorized by membership at county, state and national level.
- Assist in planning activities in connection with local issues.
Legislative Advocacy:
- Be familiar with the Legislative Process
- Build and maintain relationships with legislators at the state and national level.
- Represents NMF&LB at legislative and interim sessions.
- Develop and implement comprehensive legislative strategies to advocate for policies that support the agricultural industry.
- Identify and recommend state legislative priorities.
- Coordinate with other departments to implement strategies.
- Monitor, analyze, and track state and federal legislation and regulatory proposals that impact farmers, ranchers, and the broader agricultural community.
- Testify before legislative bodies and regulatory agencies on issues affecting the Farm Bureau's members.
- Assist leadership in creating talking points for testimony or meetings with elected officials or regulatory agencies.
- Draft legislative proposals, position papers, and correspondence on behalf of the organization as it relates to public policy.
- Influence legislation by personal contact, testimony and mobilizing county Farm Bureau and Livestock support.
- Keep up to date on lobbying reports with the Secretary of State for both individual and organization.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, government agencies, advocacy groups, and industry coalitions.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Farm and Livestock Bureau and governmental bodies, representing the organization's interests and positions.
- Collaborate with local Farm and Livestock Bureau leaders to support grassroots advocacy initiatives and educate members on key policy issues.
- Provide training on advocacy and engagement to members to help mobilize grassroot action.
Policy Research and Communication:
- Conduct research on emerging policy trends and issues affecting agriculture, rural communities, and land use.
- Develop policy briefs, talking points, and educational materials to inform and engage members and stakeholders.
- Provide regular updates to Farm Bureau members on relevant legislative and regulatory activities.
Event Coordination and Representation:
- Plan and coordinate legislative events, including legislative events, farm tours for legislators, and public forums/roundtables.
- Attend key legislative hearings, meetings, and conferences to stay informed and provide real-time input on policy developments.
Coalition Building:
- Partner with other agricultural organizations and coalitions to advance shared legislative goals.
- Coordinate with American Farm Bureau and western regional Farm Bureau offices on federal issues and align strategies for maximum impact.
QUALIFICATIONS:Must possess a bachelor's degree (agricultural or political science degree preferred)Demonstrate leadership ability to promote NMF&LB while working to strengthen and serve New Mexico agricultureBasic understanding of legislative and regulatory processesFamiliarity with Microsoft programs including Outlook, Word, and PowerPointMust have demonstrated excellent writing, editing, and project experienceHigh achiever, with demonstrated ability to work independently to set priorities and exercise initiative while meeting deadlinesTime management, multitasking, and organizational skillsWork experience in agriculture or related field is a plusPay range: DOEEmployment includes full benefits- health, vision and dental insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, 401k retirement, and life insurance. Preferred location: Las Cruces, NM, remote work negotiable but must be within state of New Mexico. Relocation expenses negotiable. This position closes November 20, 2024.