Director of Government Affairs

REGIONAL FOOD BANK OF OKLAHOMA•Oklahoma City, OK

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Ready to lead and shape public policy that reduces food insecurity across Oklahoma? In this changemaker role, you serve as the organization’s lead on public policy strategy and external advocacy, translating community experience and organizational insight into clear, evidence-based policy priorities while building strong relationships with elected officials and partners. You balance research, communication and coalition work to help decision-makers understand how public systems impact access to food and economic stability. What success looks like in the first 6–12 months includes establishing engaged statewide advocacy networks, documenting and aligning policy priorities across teams, strengthening policymaker understanding of hunger and food bank roles and delivering timely, accessible and accurate advocacy materials.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education, training and relevant professional experience.
At least five years of experience working in a leadership role.
Demonstrated experience with public policy, advocacy, coalition building and legislative activity.
Experience managing a diverse workforce.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database or CRM systems.
Valid driver’s license meeting organizational standards.
Ability to explain complex policy topics clearly to varied audiences.
Commitment to advancing the mission of ending hunger.
Ability to learn and adapt to new technologies.
Ability to complete required background check, motor vehicle record review, drug screening and physical assessment.

Nice To Haves

Experience working within state or local government environments.
Background in public policy affecting nutrition assistance or food systems.
Experience in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations addressing community needs.
Familiarity with public funding structures and regulatory processes.
Experience communicating policy topics to public or community audiences.

Responsibilities

Create and sustain a statewide group of advocates focused on policies that reduce food insecurity.
Form and maintain coalitions to improve access to food and reduce poverty.
Encourage coordination between private and public entities addressing food and economic insecurity.
Represent the organization in policy-related groups, committees and advisory settings.
Guide neighbor engagement and organizing efforts, including Magnify Oklahoma initiatives.
Inform and engage people in advocacy efforts connected to hunger and public policy.
Build awareness and deepen understanding of food insecurity among partners, community members and policymakers.
Educate partner agencies, lawmakers and the community on hunger drivers and policy solutions.
Create educational materials on specific issues for legislators and policymakers.
Work with media outlets to explain hunger issues and policy effects on food access.
Educate elected officials on the role of food banks in addressing hunger.
Maintain communication with state, federal and local elected officials and their staff.
Monitor and track laws and regulations that affect food and economic security in Oklahoma.
Review policies and rules to inform sound policy conclusions.
Coordinate and support the board’s policy advisory function.
Develop evidence-based policy recommendations that improve access to food and strengthen economic security.
Coordinate policy focus areas and messaging with partner organizations.
Educate policymakers and stakeholders through meetings and visits throughout Oklahoma and Washington, D.C.
Prepare research materials that inform community understanding of hunger issues.
Ensure internal teams communicate consistently about hunger and policy priorities.
Write and edit issue briefs, speeches, reports and notes as needed.
Manage the public policy budget and oversee advocacy-related grant funding.
Provide direction and feedback to the Advocacy and Policy Specialist.

Benefits

100% paid Medical, Short-Term Disability and Basic Life and AD&D insurance for employees.
Basic Life and AD&D coverage is also provided for eligible dependents.
Dental and Vision benefits
Long-term disability
Supplemental life insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid parental leave
Flexible spending accounts
Holiday savings program
Paid time off (based on years of service)
11 paid holidays plus three floating holidays
Wellness events