Landowner Advocacy Director (Government Affairs)

Position Summary

The Montana Land Reliance (MLR) seeks an experienced, full-time Landowner Advocacy Director to develop, direct, and implement key strategies to advocate for agricultural land conservation. Key areas of responsibility include ag constituency outreach, partner collaboration, policy maker (county, state, federal, elected and agency) outreach and advocacy, and working directly with communication staff to develop communications strategies around MLR’s policy work. This position is required to work regularly at the Capitol during Montana’s bi-annual legislative session.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement year-round advocacy strategies around MLR’s ag land conservation work and mission.
• Monitor state, local, and federal government activities, assess actions, and effectively communicate response.
• Direct and design strategies for legislative sessions to ensure support for MLR’s mission during the legislative process.
• Work as MLR’s lobbyist, as needed during Montana’s legislative session.
• Supervise communication of MLR official positions regarding federal and state agencies and all levels of government policy
• Coordinate with and update staff and Board on MLR activities regarding advocacy work.
• Provide advice, counsel, and expertise in all matters related to government relations.
• Prepare general correspondence around MLR’s advocacy work.
• Further MLR’s mission and policy goals through public testimony.
• Collaborate with government affairs staff from affiliate partners and others in the ag and conservation arena.
• Develop new and maintain and nurture existing joint venture conservation with private groups and public agencies.
• Work with the public regarding the importance of private land conservation and stewardship.
• Develop outreach programs for targeted areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Passion for and commitment to MLR’s mission.
• Experience in government affairs and/or direct lobbying.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to prioritize and manage a high volume of projects and tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Hard working with superb attention to detail and nuance.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, develop and manage complex projects and adopt new approaches in response to changing circumstances.
• Experience and proven ability to encourage and nurture collaboration among diverse partners, with an ability to create and thrive in a team environment and work in partnership with a variety of people and organizations.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with proven ability to convey information simply and clearly to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently
• Ability and willingness to travel both in state and out of state.
• Valid driver’s license.