Director, Regional Policy & Partnerships

Southwest Michigan First; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

HSA health savings account

Employer-Paid Life Insurance

Employer Contribution Retirement Plan

Wellness Reimbursement

16 Paid Holidays

Half Day Fridays

Job summary

Southwest Michigan First is seeking an experienced Director of Public Policy and Strategic Initiatives to advance regional partnerships and lead our public policy and legislative efforts in Southwest Michigan. You will engage with residents, local leaders, and state officials to champion the region's interests and drive inclusive economic prosperity.

You will oversee community outreach, develop strategic communications, and coordinate with the Marketing team to reflect community voices across

Qualifications

• 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.
• Commitment to advancing economic prosperity through inclusive and equitable approaches that support individuals and communities of all backgrounds.
• 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.

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, diversity, and lived experiences 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.

Education

Bachelor's degree in political science, business, public administration, economics, or related field

Job description

Southwest Michigan First is seeking an experienced Director of Public Policy and Strategic Initiatives to advance regional partnerships and lead our public policy and legislative efforts in Southwest Michigan. You will engage with residents, local leaders, and state officials to champion the region's interests and drive inclusive economic prosperity.

You will oversee community outreach, develop strategic communications, and coordinate with the Marketing team to reflect community voices across