Southwest Michigan First is seeking an experienced, dynamic, and community-driven professional to join our team as the Director of Public Policy and Strategic Initiatives. This role will advance key partnerships and collaboratively lead our public policy and legislative activities all in service of the people, businesses, and communities that make Southwest Michigan a remarkable place to live and work.
Our organization is a nonprofit, nonpartisan entity with a mission to advance economic prosperity throughout Southwest Michigan. If you’re deeply rooted in or passionate about this region, energized by connecting with neighbors and community leaders, and have a track record of advancing strategic initiatives through partnership building and coalitions, we invite you to apply and build upon our long track record of success.
Primary Responsibilities
- Collaboratively advance a regional public policy agenda and facilitate all Public Policy Committee activities, always centering the unique needs and priorities of Southwest Michigan’s communities.
- Serve as a visible, engaged ambassador for Southwest Michigan First attending community events, building authentic relationships with residents, civic organizations, and local leaders, and championing the region’s interests at every level of government.
- Lead community outreach efforts that expand awareness of and participation in Southwest Michigan First’s work, including direct engagement with underrepresented communities across the region.
- Develop regular written and oral communications with the Public Policy Committee, Board of Directors, Chamber members, State and local elected officials, and Municipal leaders.
- Work closely with state and local elected officials to build strong public and private partnerships addressing the priorities detailed in the regional public policy agenda with particular emphasis on deepening engagement and influence at the local level, where expanding our presence and relationships is a key organizational priority.
- Cultivate partnerships, coalitions, and stakeholder engagement that reflect the breadth and diversity of our regional community.
- Collaborate with the marketing team to produce content for Southwest Michigan First’s regional digital publication and social media channels that authentically reflects the voice and values of our communities.
- Track legislative activities and research advocacy issues at the local, state, and federal levels, ensuring the Public Policy Committee has the information needed to develop position recommendations.
- Represent Southwest Michigan First on regional coalitions focused on issues such as housing, childcare, workforce development, and other quality-of-life priorities that directly impact Southwest Michigan families.
- Support strategic initiatives and organizational planning.
Core Knowledge
- Ability to effectively communicate and represent Southwest Michigan First’s position, programs, and services to the public, media, and membership.
- Proven experience with local government regulations, federal, state, and Michigan campaign laws, economic and community development, and regional history including demonstrated success building relationships with local elected officials and municipal leaders.
- Familiarity with Southwest Michigan its communities, culture, challenges, and opportunities or a clear commitment to becoming deeply embedded in the region.
- Strong understanding of regulatory issues that affect businesses in our industry.
Qualifications and Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in political science, business, public administration, economics, or related field.
- At least five years of experience in governmental affairs, lobbying, legislative or executive public service, or public affairs.
- Demonstrated experience in community outreach, civic engagement, or grassroots organizing.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to connect with audiences across community settings, not just professional ones.
- Detail-oriented with the ability to anticipate needs, meet deadlines, and exceed expectations.
- Self-starter who works well within a team while driving independent productivity.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse partners and stakeholders across Southwest Michigan.
- Committed to the region’s long-term prosperity and to excellence in all work.
- Genuine passion for Southwest Michigan’s communities and a deep commitment to shaping policy that improves the lives of those who call the region home.
Why Southwest Michigan First?
- Competitive Insurance Benefits Package: Our comprehensive insurance package ensures you and your family are covered with health and dental plans that meet your needs.
- Employer-Paid Life Insurance: We prioritize your well-being by providing life insurance coverage at no cost to you, offering peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
- Employer-Paid HSA (Health Savings Account): Take advantage of our HSA to save on medical expenses with pre-tax dollars, enhancing your financial wellness.
- Employer Contribution Retirement Plan (100% Vested Immediately): Plan for your future with confidence. Our retirement plan includes employer contributions that are fully vested from day one, ensuring your long-term financial security.
- Wellness Reimbursement: We support your commitment to well-being with a reimbursement program for wellness-related expenses, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
- 16 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a generous holiday schedule, allowing you to celebrate and recharge throughout the year.
- Half Day Fridays (Memorial Day to Labor Day): Embrace work-life balance with half-day Fridays during the summer months, giving you extra time to relax and enjoy personal pursuits.
Interested? Apply now! All applications require:
- Cover Letter
- Resume
About Southwest Michigan First
Southwest Michigan First is an organization of privately funded economic development advisors who act as the catalyst for economic success in Southwest Michigan. Founded in 1999 on the principle that the greatest force for change is a job, the organization works across all industries throughout the seven counties making up the Southwest Michigan region.
Southwest Michigan First provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local laws. In addition to federal law requirements, Southwest Michigan First complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
