Director of Government Affairs

The Grand Rapids Chamber is an award winning regional organization that believes in a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all. Organized in 1887, the Chamber convenes and leads a collection of business and community stakeholders to provide services targeted to increase growth and opportunity. It has a membership of nearly 2,400 businesses, 25 professional staff, and a $3.4 million budget. The Chamber is proud of its innovative programs that support talent development, advocacy/public policy, and business services.

In principle and practice, the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce believes in the value and power of diversity and inclusion. In efforts to better serve and represent our members and to reflect the community, the Chamber is committed to actively seeking a diverse workforce.

We are looking for a Director of Government Affairs to join our team. Under the direction of the Vice President of Government Affairs, you will develop, communicate and advance Chamber public policy priorities and position. This position is responsible for assigned programming and initiatives. Provides support for member involvement relating to advocacy issues.

Here’s more about what you’d be doing at the Grand Rapids Chamber:

Manage and monitor assigned issues and operations within the Government Affairs Division

Develop, implement and advance priorities and strategies for policy committees. Oversee the coordination of agendas and monthly activities. Work closely with committee and task force chairs

As a registered lobbyist, advocate on behalf of Chamber members for sound, pro-business public policy on the local, state and federal level

Represent the Chamber on local, state and federal issues directly with policymakers and as a member of special committees and coalitions

Implements strategies to work directly with Chamber members, partners, stakeholders, and policymakers to advance the Chamber advocacy and public policy agenda

Participate in activities of the Friends of West Michigan Business Political Action Committee including fundraising and candidate endorsement

Research, draft and communicate Chamber positions both internally within membership and externally with public officials

Maintain accurate records of official Chamber positions

Coordinate special events (e.g., receptions, issue forums, special events, etc.)

Assist Chamber members and volunteers with information needs and basic policy questions.

Maintain strong relationships with business and community leaders and has awareness of past, present, and future community issues/priorities

Serve as liaison to outside organizations for the Chamber

Represent the Chamber on various community boards and commissions

Write correspondence to elected officials on various policy issues

Craft content for Chamber communications (website, newsletters, e-mails, etc.)

Actively demonstrate commitment to the Chamber’s vision, mission, and organizational goals

Regularly evaluate the need for current or additional programs and services to meet the mission, vision and goals of the organization

Collaborates with Chamber teams to fulfill program and service objectives to retain and attract members

Implement strategies to achieve assigned revenue and budget targets

Here’s who we’re looking for:
Bachelors of Arts or Science Degree in Business, Business Management, Public Administration, Political Science, Economics, Social Science, Marketing or Communications or related field of study

At least 3 years’ experience in public policy, government and political affairs or related experience

Strong report and letter writing capabilities

General experience with volunteers and committee processes

Strong knowledge of legislative and political processes

Proven background and experience advising and interacting with community and business leaders

Proven ability to speak publicly

What’s in it for you:
Competitive salary

Health, Dental, Life and 401(k) with 5% match

A collaborative environment and ability to work with other departments

Opportunity for growth into other key departments

Be a part of a thriving organization that’s heavily focused on its members to become the strongest chamber in the country

The ability to put your stamp on things. Our team is small so you’ll have a voice to share your recommendations that will help advance our mission.

Challenge – each day is an exciting opportunity to make a difference in the community