Senior Director of Government and Industry Affairs

Livestock Marketing Association•Overland Park, KS

About The Position

The successful applicant will be a key member of the Government, Industry Affairs and Legal team at the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA). This role provides senior policy expertise, government and industry affairs advocacy, and strategy development support. Based in the Kansas City area, LMA is the leading national membership organization dedicated to representing livestock auction markets and related businesses. We are looking for an experienced industry and policy professional who will be a key advocate for LMA member interests in federal and state legislative and regulatory environments. Further, this role will represent LMA’s interests at industry events and collaborate with the entire LMA team on creating and strengthening relationships with industry partners nationwide. A bachelor’s degree is required. Higher education is beneficial with additional value being placed on candidates with a Juris Doctorate. At least 5 years of relevant experience is required but nontraditional and internship experiences will be considered for exceptional candidates. Successful applicants will have a demonstrated knowledge of/experience in the livestock industry. Applicants with work history in state and/or federal government affairs will be prioritized. This position will report to the LMA General Counsel and Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
At least 5 years of relevant experience.
Nontraditional and internship experiences will be considered for exceptional candidates.
Demonstrated knowledge of/experience in the livestock industry.
Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills.
Superior organizational and planning skills.

Nice To Haves

Higher education beneficial.
Applicants with work history in state and/or federal government affairs will be prioritized.
Additional education, particularly in the legal field is of value.
Higher education is beneficial with additional value being placed on candidates with a Juris Doctorate.
Extensive understanding of and experience with the livestock industry are essential.

Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with the General Counsel and Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs to represent LMA in federal and state government and industry affairs, advocating for LMA policy priorities.
Act as a liaison with industry organizations on livestock industry issues at meetings, events, and in correspondence to maintain and expand relationships and to align advocacy strategies when possible.
Work with LMA leadership, volunteer leaders, managers, and staff to develop, execute, and communicate LMA policy positions.
Work closely with Region Executive Officers and GIA staff to coordinate and align state legislative and regulatory strategies.
Monitor, analyze, and respond to federal and state legislation and regulations that may impact livestock marketing businesses.
Lead selected policy portfolios, providing subject matter expertise, strategic guidance, and execution support.
Review proposed legislation and regulations for potential impacts, draft formal comments, letters, and testimony.
Bring the livestock marketing sector’s positions on key issues to membership, the media, and public in coordination with LMA’s Communication and Membership Services teams.
Expand grassroots and member engagement efforts, including market visits, action alerts, and direct engagement with elected officials.
Contribute to the planning and execution of LMA D.C. Fly In and all other GIA events.
Contribute to the planning execution of the LMA Political Action Committee fundraising and spending.