OBI's policy team manages a broad portfolio of issues. Team members engaging 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 new policy manager will oversee OBI's work on issues relating to manufacturing and infrastructure, while providing support to interrelated portfolios (i.e., energy, product liability, environmental regulations, etc.). In addition, the policy manager will manage the Manufacturing Council of Oregon, becoming the association's lead for outreach, coordination and issue engagement for manufacturing companies and related stakeholders.
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 the Manufacturing Council of Oregon, in partnership with the member chair(s), to set agendas, vet policy proposals and otherwise identify ways to advance manufacturing in Oregon.
Oversee OBI's work related to manufacturing policy and infrastructure policy, serving as the subject matter expert for related issues.
Support other members of the policy team on interrelated policy areas such as, but not limited to, transportation, energy, product liability, environmental regulations, and others.
Represent OBI on various work groups, task forces and committees and manage OBI-driven stakeholder coalitions on appropriate 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
The policy manager position is Salem-based. The qualified candidate will need to be able to work in the Salem office, consistent with OBI's policies around hybrid work schedules when the legislature is not in session. Due to the nature of the position, this position will need to work in Salem at the office or state capitol and full-time when the legislature is in session.