Director Government Relations

Health Care Service Corp.; Helena (MT); Hybrid; USD 133,000 - 248,000; Full time

Job summary

Health Care Service Corporation is seeking a Government Relations leader in Montana to maintain the company’s image and influence policy at the state level. The role requires coordinating with regulators, legislators, and executive branches, with a focus on health policy strategy and federal/state insurance law knowledge.

The position is hybrid, requiring in-office hours three days per week at the Montana office.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; extensive experience with legislative bodies and regulatory agencies at the state/federal level.
• Strong knowledge of health policy issues related to government programs and commercial insurance.
• Proven ability to influence decisions and manage projects or teams.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to articulate corporate positions.
• Experience with budget planning and resource allocation is a plus.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and shifting priorities.
• Experience working with external contractors or lobbyists is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Direct government relations activities with key decision-makers and regulators.
• Coordinate with Legal and Compliance to meet regulatory requirements.
• Lead events to highlight the company’s leadership in health policy.
• Liaise with Legislatures and Governor’s offices to influence policy decisions.

Skills

Legislative experience

Policy analysis

Regulatory knowledge

Negotiation

Public speaking

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

At HCSC, our employees are the cornerstone of our business and the foundation to our success. We empower employees with curated development plans that foster growth and promote rewarding, fulfilling careers. Join HCSC and be part of a purpose-driven company that will invest in your professional development.

Job Summary

This position is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the image of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana and HCSC West Region states through proper channels of influence and public relations with members of the State Legislatures and executive branches of government at the State level. Responsible for government relations with regulatory agencies such as the Office of the Montana State Auditor, Commissioner of Securities and Insurance (CSI), including coordinating with Legal and various internal Compliance areas. Responsible for guiding legislative and health policy strategy with direction and oversight of external contracted lobbyists. Position will lead on regulatory relations and will work closely with the Legal department. Expertise in federal and state insurance laws and regulations required. Please note, this is a HYBRID position which requires in-office hours 3 days a week at the respective office location.

Responsibilities include:

• 1. Direct and coordinate government relations in concert with the Market Lead & President, BCBSMT, key decision-makers and the public for the company’s position on legislation in the MT Legislature.
• 2. Assure that the government relations needs and orders of regulatory bodies, particularly the Office of the Montana State Auditor, Commissioner of Securities and Insurance (CSI), are met. This involves close coordination with Legal and various Compliance areas.
• 3. Direct activities through the development of dedicated events designed to highlight the leadership role of BCBSMT in its dual role as business and corporate citizen.
• 4. Maintain liaison role with State Legislatures, Governor’s offices, and other governmental and advocacy groups. Assist in guiding legislators, and other elected officials, on any decisions affecting the health insurance industry.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s Degree 10 or more years of experience working with legislative bodies, regulatory agencies, and government relations, at the [state / federal] level.
• 5 years people and/or project leader experience including 2 years of influencing internal or external decisions that impact the organization.
• Knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes as well as understanding of health policy issues as they relate to government programs and commercial insurance.
• Knowledge of the insurance industry and pertinent legislation/regulations and issues impacting the industry.
• Demonstrated political skill in negotiating and influencing others.
• Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to achieve results under time constraints and evolving priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to articulate corporate positions and the business implications for wide-ranging audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills and oral/written communications skills.
• Research and analytical skills to synthesize complex legislation and regulations.
• Verbal and written communications skills.
• Overseeing the annual budget and allocating resources for various projects and operational needs.
• Translating needs and initiatives into compelling business cases.
• Conducting cost-benefit analyses to justify investments and ensure ROI.

PREFERRED JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• 4 years of experience in government relations for a health plan.
• Public speaking/presentation experience.
• Graduate or professional degree in public policy, law, or health care related field.
• JD preferred LI-AZ1 LI-HYBRID

Pay Transparency Statement:

At Health Care Service Corporation, you will be part of an organization committed to offering meaningful benefits to our employees to support their life outside of work. From health and wellness benefits, 401(k) savings plan, pension plan, paid time off, paid parental leave, disability insurance, supplemental life insurance, employee assistance program, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, plus other incentives, we offer a robust total rewards package for employees. Learn more about our benefit offerings by visiting https://careers.hcsc.com/totalrewards. The compensation offered will vary depending on your job-related skills, education, knowledge, and experience. This role aligns with an annual incentive bonus plan subject to the terms and the conditions of the plan.

Base Pay Range:

$133,400.00 - $247,700.00 Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location.

HCSC Employment Statement:

We are an Equal Opportunity Employment employer dedicated to providing a welcoming environment where the unique differences of our employees are respected and valued. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For more than 80 years, HCSC has been dedicated to expanding access to high-quality, cost-effective health care and equipping our members with information and tools to make the best health care decisions for themselves and their families. As an industry leader, HCSC also has been helping to make the health care system work better for all Americans. To remain a leader, we offer compelling careers that encourage resourcefulness, strategic thought and empower you to make a difference in the lives of our members and their communities. Today, with the industry at an important crossroad, HCSC is reimagining health care and looking for original thinkers who aren’t afraid to make innovative contributions. We are an Equal Opportunity Employment employer dedicated to workforce diversity and a drug-free and smoke-free workplace. Learn more about HCSC, our commitment to our members and the opportunity you’ll have to improve health care delivery in an open, collaborative environment. HCSC is committed to diversity in the workplace and to providing equal opportunity to employees and applicants.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, Divisions of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, and Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association © Copyright 2025 Health Care Service Corporation. All Rights Reserved.