Job Description

Position Summary

OBI’s policy team manages a broad portfolio of issues. Team members engage in lobbying, rulemaking, research, coalition management and strategic communications to help advance OBI’s position on proposed bills, regulations or other policies. In addition to this direct advocacy, policy team members manage OBI’s internal, member-driven committees on topics related to their portfolio.

The policy manager will have opportunities to advocate for policies to support Oregon’s businesses and economy. Specific policy area assignments will be determined based on organizational needs and the unique skill set of the qualified candidate.

The policy manager reports to the executive vice president and works closely with all members of the OBI team. The policy manager must think strategically and creatively to solve problems, identify new opportunities and drive initiatives to advance the work of OBI. The policy manager will represent OBI in a variety of settings and must be comfortable working both collaboratively and independently.

NOTE: OBI is open to negotiation with potential candidates about the title and compensation based on commensurate experience. In other words, more seasoned professionals interested in joining OBI should express interest.

Responsibilities and Duties

The following is an illustrative, not exhaustive, list of responsibilities and duties for the policy manager:

• Manage policy committee(s), in partnership with the member chair(s), to set agendas, vet policy proposals and otherwise identify ways to support business in Oregon.
• Present to the OBI Board of Directors or other stakeholders as needed.
• Support other members of the policy team on interrelated policy areas such as, but not limited to, employment, health care, education, workforce development and others.
• Represent OBI on various work groups, task forces and committees and manage OBI-driven stakeholder coalitions on appropriate issues.
• Conduct policy research as necessary to understand issues and appropriately engage.
• Write and present testimony on legislative issues.
• Coordinate with OBI’s communications team to ensure effective and timely dissemination of relevant policy information.
• Maintain strong relationships with elected officials, executive and legislative staff, other policymakers and key stakeholders/partner organizations.
• Support OBI’s organization-wide efforts as appropriate. This may include, but is not limited to, events, strategic communications and political affairs.
• Comply with all relevant laws, regulations and membership organization rules governing lobbying and political activity.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• Background in public policy analysis, advocacy, and development. Experience with lobbying, rulemaking or other direct policy engagement is preferred.
• Understanding of legislative systems and organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Track record of building and leading coalitions, stakeholder groups or similar.
• Keen attention to detail, strong organizational skills and an ability to multi-task and prioritize work assignments.
• Minimum of four years of relevant experience.
• Proficiency with commonly used technology platforms, such as the Microsoft Office suite of products and Zoom.

Position Location

OBI has offices in both Salem and Portland. The qualified candidate will be assigned to one of those locations. When the legislature is not in session employees may work from home up to two days each week. Due to the nature of the position, this position will need to work in Salem (at the office or state capitol) full-time when the legislature is in session. Some travel may be required to attend meetings throughout the state.

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to belenmartinez@oregonbusinessindustry.com.

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