Public Affairs Manager

Ascend Wellness Holdings•Chicago, IL

2d•Remote

About The Position

Ascend Wellness Holdings (AWH) is a leading, vertically integrated multi-state cannabis operator focused on building strong brands, delivering best-in-class retail experiences, and operating with discipline at scale. As we continue to grow, we are investing in the systems, processes, and leadership required to operate a complex, regulated business with consistency, speed, and accountability. Ascend is seeking a Public Affairs Manager to drive our legislative and regulatory strategy in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry. In this role, you will represent the company with policymakers and stakeholders while helping shape our long-term policy direction. This position reports to the Vice President of Public Affairs. Location: Remote, with occasional travel. Preference for candidates based in IL, MI, or OH.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required.
Minimum of 5+ years of experience in government, legislative, or regulatory affairs.
Proficient in Microsoft Office, with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Demonstrated integrity, accountability, and professionalism, with a strong sense of urgency and ownership.
Ability to meet all legal, regulatory, and company requirements for employment in the cannabis industry.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across stakeholders.
Willingness to travel as business needs require.
Ability and availability to work outside of standard business hours, including evenings and events, as needed to support business objectives.

Nice To Haves

Cannabis industry experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Represent Ascend at cannabis trade association meetings and industry forums.
Lead analysis of proposed legislative and regulatory actions, assessing potential business impact and recommending appropriate responses.
Monitor federal, state, and local legislative and regulatory activity to advance and protect Ascend's market position.
Track relevant legislation and regulations, proactively notifying internal stakeholders of pending actions and required follow-up.
Monitor, document, and report on municipal, local, and regional legislative calendars across multiple jurisdictions.
Identify high-impact policy proposals that may affect Ascend's operations, growth, or compliance posture.
Build and maintain strong relationships with state and local government officials, regulators, and key external stakeholders.
Provide operational and administrative support to senior leadership, including preparing reports and trackers, maintaining digital filing systems, scheduling meetings, and compiling meeting notes.
Contribute to the development of social media content in support of government affairs and corporate communications initiatives.
Draft and distribute communications materials, including press releases, backgrounders, fact sheets, newsletters, statements, and other external-facing content.
Manage and respond to media inquiries in coordination with internal stakeholders.
Support the development and execution of Ascend's corporate communications strategy.