The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation is seeking a senior director of state and national policy that will provide strong legislative and regulatory representation at the state and federal level that advances the organization's interests and policy objectives. The ideal candidate will serve as the key external representative and expert in agriculture policy. Will develop and or sustain partnerships with agricultural producer groups and trade associations. Play a key role with the vice president of public policy and other leaders to evaluate, refine and strengthen strategy and accelerate progress towards goals and outcomes. Must have expertise in agriculture policy and practice, demonstrated negotiation and influencing skills with the ability to garner consensus. Ability to recognize and build on strategic opportunities for progress. Able to manage and motivate a team to accomplish challenging deliverables with tight timeframes and significant uncertainty. Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to work with colleagues and partners of varied backgrounds and experience. Excellent analytical and interpersonal skills and an affinity for a fast-paced work environment.

Among the primary responsibilities:

• Serve as Manager over the State and National Policy Team of the Public Policy Department.

• Manage lobbying efforts and policy implementation strategies of state lobbyists. 

• Coordinate staff and outside resources to create a successful advocacy presence with the state and federal government.  

• Represent Ohio Farm Bureau Federation and its interests at the Statehouse, Congress and with all regulatory agencies.  

• Build working relationships with members of the Ohio Congressional delegation and their staff through frequent trips to Washington D.C. and regular communications.

• Serve as primary liaison with American Farm Bureau staff on national issues and serve as Ohio Farm Bureau Federation's National Affairs coordinator. Coordinate Ohio Farm Bureau Federation staff contact with American Farm Bureau on national issues.

• Encourage county Farm Bureaus to build stronger relationships with congressional offices, especially district offices and their personnel. Assist with member contacts including utilization of the OFBF grassroots action system.

• Serve as primary resource to Ohio Farm Bureau Federation staff on national issues to include providing sufficient information for staff to be effective. Assist in preparation of materials for publication or broadcast.

• Serve as Ohio Farm Bureau Federation spokesperson on state and national issues as directed.

• Plan annual leadership trips to Washington D.C. assisted by other Ohio Farm Bureau Federation staff as appropriate.

• Serve as a resource for county Farm Bureau meetings on state, national and regulatory issues.

• Assist Ohio Farm Bureau Federation Public Policy staff in leadership development activities including leadership training activities and policy development.

• Oversee staff who manage AGGPAC and advise AGGPAC Committee on appropriate support levels.