Montana Career Opportunity – Public Policy Director – Montana Nonprofit Association

The Montana Nonprofit Association (MNA) is a membership organization that promotes a stronger nonprofit sector, a supportive public climate, and the ability of nonprofits to accomplish their missions. Representing the richness and diversity of Montana’s nonprofits, MNA members (over 550 and growing) address a broad array of missions, come from all four corners of the state, and range in size from the largest organizations to the smallest unstaffed nonprofits. MNA achieves its mission through advocacy and public policy; access to affordable goods and services; research and education on issues of critical importance; training, professional development, and technical assistance; sector leadership and convening; and strategic communications. For more information, visit http://www.mtnonprofit.org.

Position Description

The Public Policy Director of the Montana Nonprofit Association (MNA) develops and coordinates implementation of organizational strategies and activities to support MNA’s public policy goals. The Public Policy Director works as part of a team of professionals who serve MNA’s membership through advocacy and public policy, group buying programs, professional and organizational development, and research and communications.

Duties and Responsibilities

Public Policy Planning and Development

Guide MNA’s direction and focus in the area of public policy with input and guidance from the MNA Public Policy Council, MNA staff, and Board of Directors.

Implement MNA’s Public Policy Agenda and develop strategies and negotiate solutions for policy issues that are important to the nonprofit sector.

Research, monitor, analyze and respond to federal, state and local issues that affect all 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Montana.

Organize and engage members, nonprofits, and policymakers in public policy efforts on nonprofit sector issues.

Create and manage systems to track information about key issues and policymakers.
Constituent Development

Build and maintain relationships with members, other nonprofit organizations, coalitions, foundations and associations throughout the state to advance policy and training goals.

Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, their representatives and staff. Represent MNA as primary liaison with government officials.

Respond to requests for information from members, nonprofits, policymakers, and stakeholders.
Public Policy Education

Manage and produce web content, electronic policy updates, legislative alerts, position statements, and research reports for members, other nonprofits, policymakers, and stakeholders.

Develop and coordinate public policy special events (Nonprofit Day at the Capitol, etc), legislative educational forums and briefings, candidate forums, and training around public policy skills for members, other nonprofits, policymakers, and stakeholders.

Educate policymakers within diverse government settings, including the executive and legislative branches of state and federal governments.

Additional Responsibilities

May supervise policy consultants, lobbyists, and interns.

Engage in professional development activities.

Contribute to and direct other organizational projects as needed.
Qualifications and Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, public affairs or social science preferred.

Five years relevant work experience in nonprofits, public policy, and collaboration. Knowledge of state and federal legislative processes required.

Strong skills in policy analysis, research, and forum/workshop development.

Commitment to a statewide perspective. Demonstrated broad view of what unites nonprofits.

Excellent professional writing and oral communication skills.

Excellent interpersonal and constituent relations skills and demonstrated ability to develop and maintain relationships with diverse people (e.g., grassroots leaders, nonprofit professionals in many fields, policymakers) of all political persuasions.

Superior project management and organizational skills. Demonstrated ability to manage multiples tasks and priorities, prioritize work, maintain deadlines and ensure quality of work.

Computer and Internet literacy required. Experience with Microsoft Office required.

Periodic travel and valid driver’s license required.

Salary and Benefits

Competitive salary depending on experience. Excellent benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance; generous paid time off; and retirement (after 12 months).

Application

Deadline for submission is August 28, 2009. To be considered, submit cover letter, resume, 3 references, and any salary requirements via email to [email protected] or via regular mail (postmarked) to:

Montana Nonprofit Association

ATTN: Public Policy Director

P.O. Box 1744

Helena, MT 59624

Email submissions are strongly encouraged. Questions should be directed to the email address above or 406-449-3717.